eWaste Management of Household Consumers in Kerala

Abstract

Rapid replacement of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) and the resultant obsolescence or creation of discarded electronics has resulted in a complex and challenging waste form globally, called electronic waste or e-waste. The challenges of e-waste in health, environment and its proper management are a matter of concern. Practices of storage and selling of electronic scrap in the unorganized markets further contribute to problems in its effective disposal. Illegal trade markets of electronic scrap follow traditional backyard techniques of treating e-waste for extracting valuable materials or components. Lack of awareness among users of electronic equipment regarding toxic pollution through e-waste junk, lack of understanding regarding appropriate disposal methods and inaccessibility to proper e-waste disposal facilities, in addition to lax regulations are major constraints in the implementation of a sustainable system for e-waste management. newlineThe e-waste management industry in the country is now gradually evolving with the introduction of e-waste regulations and guidelines resulting in an increase of registered formal e-waste recycling units. Several states in India have recycling facilities with varied capacities for eco-friendly management of e-waste and reuse of materials. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the southern states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have registered and operational units for e-waste management. In Kerala, increase in job opportunities and infrastructural developments have been transformational. Along with these developments, problems of waste generation have been rising. Necessary significance has not been given towards improving the e-waste scenario, as we still lack an e-waste recycling unit in the state. Several studies and projects have been progressing in the area of electronic waste collection and disposal; however there is a long way to go, to be at par with our counterparts. The current study focuses on household consumers in