India’s E-Waste Management: Fostering Sustainability and Environmental Accountability

Undoubtedly the rapid advancements in technology have brought advantages and conveniences to our lives. However, along with these benefits, we also face a challenge, as the increasing amount of waste is commonly known as e-waste. As our dependency on devices continues to grow, so does the volume of discarded gadgets. This surge in e-waste raises concerns for both the environment and public health. To tackle this pressing issue, India has taken an approach by implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework to effectively manage e-waste and protect the environment.

E-waste refers to discarded electrical equipment such as smartphones, laptops, televisions and more. These devices often contain substances like lead, mercury and cadmium that pose risks to the environment and human health if not handled and disposed of responsibly. Inadequate methods of disposing of waste usually involve landfills or incineration processes that can result in harmful chemicals being released into the air, water and soil. This ultimately leads to pollution and negative health effects for communities residing near these waste sites.

Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, India introduced the E-Waste Management Rules in 2016, with amendments in the years. These rules aim to encourage the handling of waste and are based on the idea of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

EPR is a system where manufacturers take responsibility for the lifespan of their products, including their disposal and recycling. In relation to waste, it puts the responsibility on manufacturers and importers of devices.