E-waste initiative: Mumbai to tackle growing waste threat; UN warns of millions of tons generated annually

An "E-waste Initiative" has been launched in Mumbai to deal with growing threat no one can ignore. The United Nations estimates that we generate millions of tons of e-waste, or electronic waste, every year.In Maharashtra, government initiatives like the e-waste Management Rules mandate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for both manufacturers and producers. The e-waste Management Rules are a set of comprehensive rules that look after registered recyclers, refurbishers, and producers. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) is also integral to regulating and monitoring e-waste recycling facilities. The MPCB is responsible for registering recyclers and reprocessors.E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices. Many electronic devices like smartphones, computers, and other gadgets contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and flame retardants. Improper disposal of these gadgets or devices can lead to toxins penetrating into the soil and the environment. This can have massive repercussions for humans as well as wildlife.UN has warned that waste from electronics is piling up worldwide while recycling rates are not up to the mark. The UN’s International Telecommunications Union and research arm, UNITAR, has said that around 62 million tonnes of e-waste were generated in 2022.