Urban Mining - From E-waste to Resources Need for an Environmentally Sound Management of e-waste

摘要

Development of technology, advancement in its application, increased purchasing power of the consumers and shorter life span of the products has led to the exponential accumulation of e-waste. The high rate of accumulation of e-waste is a hindrance toits disposal. In addition, the toxic components in e-waste are a major contributor of pollution in environment. In India, most of the e-waste management units are unaccountable as they belong to informal sector. Taking cognizance of these facts, India has brought out Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of E-waste in the country which has become effective with effect from May 1, 2012. However, the efficacy of these Guidelines will depend on how far these guidelines are respected by the consumers and the manufacturers.