Electronic Waste ( E-waste) is generated when any electronic or electrical equipment ( such as Computers, Mainframes, Printers, CDs, Scanners, Copiers, Battery Cells, Cellular Phones, Calculators, TVs, Medical Apparatus, iPods, Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Air Conditioners etc.) becomes unfit for the intended use or it has crossed it’s expiry date or it is damaged beyond repairs. E-waste is a huge risk to humans, animals and the environment.
The presence of toxic substances such as Lithium, Mercury, Nickel, Selenium, Arsenic, Barium, Cobalt, Lead etc., makes it extremely hazardous in case E-waste get dismantled and processed in a crude manner, transiting mainly through informal sector buyers such a ” Kabadiwalas” as prevalent in a country like India. Rapid technological advancements coupled with aggressive marketing by the large producing companies, the consumers are being nudged continuously to switch to newer models and trending technologies, thus adding to the ever-increasing burden of e-waste, posing grave environmental challenges for the population.
Acknowledging that the consumers are key to better e-waste management, H. M E- Waste Management ( Bhiwadi, Rajasthan) with the help of Anand Lok Residents Association, recently organized an Awareness Camp for addressing the e-waste menace. Keeping 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) in mind, it was deliberated in the camp for consumers as how to dispose off the e-waste correctly, with increased re-use and recycling while adopting sustainable consumer habits.
In this effort for managing e-waste beginning at the community level, organizations like H. M E-waste Management and Anand Lok RWA (ARA) can have a very fruitful association. ARA secretary Mr . Kushal Kumar says that this initiative is a small contribution to save the environment and If we all start looking at the bigger picture and do our small bit, we shall leave this planet a better place for our future generations. According to him this is an ongoing activity and will be held regularly so that e waste is processed in a proper way.
by Ashok Mandal (Ex – President ARA, 80, Anand Lok 9810067360)
