As India’s economy grows and technological consumption increases, the generation of e-waste has become a critical environmental issue. The government has enacted the E-Waste (Management) Rules, effective from April 1, 2023. These rules, covering 100 types of electronic equipment, place the onus on manufacturers to handle their products’ end-of-life in a more sustainable manner. The legislation sets a target of 70% e-waste collection by FY23-24, and 80% from 2024-25 onwards, a substantial step towards formalising the sector and addressing hazards of informal recycling.
The new regulations aim to manage electronic waste in an environmentally friendly way and establish an enhanced extended producer responsibility (EPR) system for recycling. All manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers must register on a portal created by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Sounding optimistic, Rakesh Bhardwaj, head of public affairs at Oppo India, said, “The emphasis on resource recovery over mere collection signals a transition towards a circular economy model. While still in its early stages, commitment to resource recovery is expected to spur technological innovation and advancements in this sector.”
India lags behind other major nations in e-waste recycling. According to roundup.org, the top two e-waste-generating countries, China and the US, recycle 16% and 15% of their e-waste, while India, which is at number three, recycles just 1% of its e-waste. This highlights the urgency of enhanced recycling processes.
Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. Ashish Ahuja, head of E-Waste at LG India, highlighted several issues with the current implementation of these rules. However, most stakeholders firmly believe technological advancements are crucial in improving e-waste recycling. Ahuja said, “The online waste management portal is a great initiative to enhance regulatory compliance and streamline waste management processes, empowering us to make a significant difference in e-waste management.”
As India marches towards a circular economy, the structured recycling of e-waste will not only reduce environmental harm but also support sustainable development. The collaboration between government, industry, and technology is key to transforming e-waste from a challenge into an opportunity for economic and environmental progress.ia’s e-waste challenge