Challenges and extended business opportunity associated with E-waste management options

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Challenges and extended business opportunity associated with E-waste management options

Year : 2023

Publisher : Elsevier

Source Title : Global E-waste Management Strategies and Future Implications

Document Type :

Abstract

The electrical and electronic waste, commonly known as “E-waste,” has come into the limelight from mid-1970s. A large amount of E-waste was transported from the developed countries and dumped in the developing countries due to availability of large area and labor force. It has been documented that 95% of the total E-waste generated is recycled by the informal (unauthorized) sector but at the cost of environment and human health. The informal sector has a well-established network for collection of E-waste from various parts of the country, but, in comparison to the formal (authorized) sector, they lack financial and technological support. For example, in India, there are 472 registered recycling centers having a capacity of 1,426,685.22 MTA but the generation rate is much higher than the recycling amount. In view of the adverse impacts resulted from mishandling of E-waste, research studies have been conducted and technologies developed to combat the problems of E-waste. Today, there is immense opportunity to establish start-ups and enhance the business opportunity to recycle and recover resources from E-waste to increase the economic growth of the country. The informal and formal sectors can coordinate and initiate a great prospect in the management of E-waste in an environment-friendly manner. Through their coordination, the concept of circular economy can be achieved, leading to the sustainable development. The present chapter covers the challenges faced by the society and environment due to the generation of E-waste, as well as business opportunities associated with E-waste management options.