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E-Waste Disposal in India: Challenges and Constraints

Anup Amaresh

E-waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams in India. Globally, the hazards of improper waste disposal are well known and literature indicates that this awareness level is increasing in India. The major constraint is that the disposal and recycling activities in developing countries are handled mainly by the informal sector where the lack of regulation threatens the health of the people working in this sector and poses significant environmental hazards. Rudimentary techniques are followed to extract reusable materials Legislative loopholes are exploited by the developed nations to export their e-waste to developing countries in Asia and Africa. Rapid obsolescence is another factor driving the ever- increasing quantities of e-waste being generated. In the Indian context, we have identified that the lack of formal recycling facilities to handle the e-waste is a major constraint. Studies have indicated that regulating the informal sector will address these constraints significantly, as well as provide employment opportunities. Gaps are identified in the Indian context in terms of policies as well as the infrastructure required. Solutions to address these gaps are developed in terms of policy changes, improvements in the existing infrastructure as well as suggestions are identified to address the ever-increasing amounts of e-waste being generated.