India is the third-largest generator of E-Waste globally, producing approximately 4.1 million tonnes annually (UNEP, 2021) driven by rapid technological advancements and frequent replacement cycles. However, only about 10% of this waste is processed through formal recycling systems. The informal sector handles the majority, often employing hazardous methods such as acid baths and open burning, leading to severe environmental pollution and health risks. The lack of sustainable disposal practices and inadequate end-of-life management systems further exacerbates the problem, underscoring the need for greater accountability and compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks.
Electronic Waste contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into soil and water. Exposure can result in neurological disorders, kidney failure, and other chronic illnesses.
E-Waste management is more than just about disposing of old gadgets—it’s about protecting the environment, human health, and valuable resources. Proper disposal of E-waste contributes to circular economy, compliance with anti-pollution regulations and supports sustainability by reusing valuable materials from old electronics.
Managing E-waste supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
The E-waste (Management) Rules, 2016, updated in 2022, require businesses to adopt sustainable practices:
Brand owners, Producers and importers, must obtain EPR authorization and establish collection systems for end-of-life products.
Safe handling of data-bearing devices to prevent breaches.
Submit regular updates on collection and recycling activities to regulatory authorities.
Environmentally safe recycling methods while recovering precious materials through authorized recyclers
Certified processes such as digital wiping and physical shredding ensure complete data security through our partners
Comprehensive documentation for EPR compliance and regulatory reporting.
Tailored to meet specific business needs and achieve collection targets.
Use of digital tools to track all E-Waste collected and channeled to authorized E-Waste recyclers, ensuring 100% transparency in the recycling process.
Producers must obtain Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) authorization, establish collection mechanisms for end-of-life electronics, achieve specified collection targets, and ensure proper handling or recycling of collected E-Waste. They must also submit annual compliance reports to the respective regulatory authorities.
EPR is a regulatory approach that holds producers, Brand Owners & Importers responsible for managing the environmental impacts of their products throughout the product lifecycle. This includes the collection, safe disposal or recycling of the product once it becomes waste .
Individuals can contribute by:
● Properly segregating E-Waste and not mixing it with household waste.
● Delivering old electronics to authorized collection centers or take-back facilities.
● Avoiding the informal sector for recycling to prevent environmental harm .
Businesses and individuals failing to comply with E-Waste regulations may face fines, suspension of operations, or legal action as per environmental laws. This aims to ensure accountability and adherence to sustainable practices
Professional waste management and electronic waste disposal ensures that hazardous substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium are safely treated, preventing soil and water contamination. Certified recycling methods also help recover valuable materials, reducing the need for raw material extraction .
Data on devices must be securely destroyed through certified methods, such as digital wiping or physical shredding, to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches
Formal recycling ensures compliance with environmental laws, reduces pollution, safeguards worker health, and enables the recovery of valuable materials under controlled conditions. Informal methods often involve unsafe practices like open burning or acid leaching, causing severe environmental and health risks .
Yes, the CPCB maintains a list of authorized E-Waste recyclers and dismantlers across India. These facilities comply with national standards and use environmentally sound technologies for processing
SZW uses certified techniques like digital wiping and physical shredding to irreversibly destroy data on devices before recycling.
Got something on your mind? Let's discuss about the details.
