Generation of electronic waste in India: Current scenario, dilemmas and stakeholders

Abstract

This paper tries to quantify the amount of E-waste generated in India with the related stakeholder involvement. Electronic waste (E-waste) or waste electrical and electronic equipments (WEEE), which is relatively a recent addition to the hazardous waste stream, is drawing rapid attention across the globe as the quantity being generated is rising rapidly. All electrical and electronic equipments (EEE), on completion of their useful life, contribute to the E-waste stream. However, the current estimation of the amount of E-waste generated in India is extremely hazy. In this paper, an attempt has been made to formulate an inventory of E-waste in the country in terms of both internal or domestic generation and illegal import. Different methods of estimation of E-waste have been evaluated. Furthermore, the paper tries to identify the whole range of diverse stakeholders involved in the generation of E-waste in the country. It has been observed that actual and reliable data on the generation of E-waste, both domestic and import of E-waste, is currently unavailable in India. Few studies have been conducted to identify the involvement of different stakeholders in E-waste generation in the country. Urgent needs arise to document the issues related to E-waste generation and management in the country in order to deal with this important and toxic waste stream.

Key words: E-waste generation, inventory, domestic generation, illegal import, stakeholders.