E-waste in India: a concern for environment and public health

Abstract

Modern computerized world and progression in Information Technology (IT) has revolutionized our lifestyle drastically. Human life is highly dependent on electrical equipment; simultaneously it has also led to the production of huge amount of electronic wastes (e-wastes). Over the time, e-waste accumulation has caused heavy metal toxicity and contaminated the environment. Globally, India is among the top importer of e-wastes from other countries for recycling and extracting important metals for reuse. India has a load of almost two million tonnes of e-waste per year along with an undisclosed amount of imported e-scrap. Ever rising demand of electronic devices has forced up countries to develop regulations for proper disposal and transport of e-waste but concern remains about their strict application. Majorly, disposal of e-waste is crude and improper that causes leaching of inorganic substances (Tin, Lead, Cadmium, Nickel, Arsenic, Copper, Mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls and plastics) in the environment. Under these circumstances, it becomes mandatory to device means for proper disposal of e-wastes and focus on reduce, recycle and reuse. Herein, we highlight the status of e-wastes in India and the subsequent impact on soil quality, human health and environment.