International Journal of Waste Resources

Consequences of Dismantling Electronic Waste and Its Regulatory Methods

Sthian Chen^* Department of Environmental Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
^*Correspondence: Sthian Chen, Department of Environmental Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China, Email:

Received: 01-Nov-2023, Manuscript No. IJWR-23-23526; Editor assigned: 03-Nov-2023, Pre QC No. IJWR-23-23526(PQ); Reviewed: 23-Nov-2023, QC No. IJWR-23-23526; Revised: 01-Dec-2023, Manuscript No. IJWR-23-23526(R); Published: 08-Dec-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2252-5211.23.13.558

Description

Electronic waste, commonly known as e-waste, represents a growing global issue. In India alone, approximately 2 million tons of e-waste is generated annually, yet only 438,085 tons are collected and recycled. E-waste poses a greater environmental threat than most other types of solid waste. When e-waste is deposited in landfills, it can result in the leaching of hazardous heavy metals into the ground, rendering groundwater and soil contaminated. Moreover, certain heavy metals found in e-waste are challenging to mine, and the environmental damage caused by mining underscores the importance of recycling these materials. The need for proper segregation of e-waste cannot be overstated. E-waste should be handled separately from other types of solid waste. Segregating e-waste at its source offers numerous advantages, including reduced post-processing time, cost-effective treatment planning, decreased transportation expenses, and a lighter overall workload along the recycling chain. Unfortunately, e-waste is sometimes disposed of alongside non-biodegradable solid waste, perpetuating the misconception that it is no different from regular plastic waste. This perception must change. E-waste deserves special treatment and segregation. The significance of segregating e-waste is immense. E-waste contains valuable metals such as gold, silver, and copper, which can be extracted and reintroduced into the production cycle. Proper source separation and segregation of e-waste are fundamental to enhancing recycling and disposal processes. As of April 2021, there were over 450 dedicated e-waste dismantlers and recyclers authorized by State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees under the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). It is crucial to ensure that these entities adhere to the prescribed guidelines for recycling. The e-waste recycling process primarily comprises two stages: manual collection and processing (which involves sorting, separating, cleaning, emptying, dismantling, and segregation) and mechanical processing (including shredding, grinding, and selective treatment).

Dismantling refers to the systematic breakdown of electronic devices into their individual components for further processing and recycling. Many electronic devices contain valuable components such as circuit boards, semiconductors, and connectors that can be reused or recycled. Dismantling allows for the efficient extraction of these components, reducing the need for raw materials in manufacturing new devices. Electronic devices often contain hazardous materials, including lead, mercury, and brominated flame retardants. Dismantling ensures the safe removal and containment of these toxic substances, preventing them from leaching into the environment. E-waste contains a mix of materials, including metals, plastics, and glass. Dismantling enables the separation of these materials, making it easier to process them for recycling. This separation also reduces the environmental impact of incineration or landfill disposal. For electronic devices like computers and smartphones, dismantling includes the secure removal and destruction of data storage components. This is critical to protect sensitive information and maintain data privacy. However, dismantling electronic devices should be conducted with great care and responsibility. Dismantling can expose workers to hazardous materials and sharp components. Adequate safety measures, including personal protective equipment, proper ventilation, and training, should be in place to protect workers' health. Improper dismantling practices can lead to the release of hazardous substances into the environment. Responsible e-waste recycling facilities adhere to strict environmental standards to minimize pollution. E-waste management is subject to various regulations and laws, which vary by region.

Conclusion

Facilities involved in dismantling must comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues. The recycling industry must be mindful of the global trade in e-waste. It's important to ensure that dismantled components and materials are not exported to developing countries where they may be handled unsafely. To encourage responsible dismantling practices in e-waste management, there is a growing trend toward certification programs for recycling facilities. These programs assess and verify the environmental and ethical practices of recycling operations, providing consumers and businesses with assurance that their ewaste is being managed responsibly.