E-waste (Electronic Waste)
E-waste or electronic waste is formed due to electronic gadgets such as computers, mobile phones, TV sets , etc . which are not in proper condition.
- It is hazardous and unmanageable solid waste .
- It contains many hazardous heavy metals such as lead, beryllium, mercury and cadmium.
- These heavy metals are non-biodegradable in nature. Therefore , they remain accumulated in the environment and remain there for a long period of time.
- The solid microorganisms are directly and indirectly affected by E-waste.
- E-waste affects the human health.
- Burning and land filling of E-waste is dangerous for the surrounding environment and hence , disposing it becomes difficult.
The disposal and handling of E-waste is becoming a serious issue because:
- In India , about 100 tonnes of electronic waste is produced everyday.
- Since, the economic growth is taking place, many people are using multiple electronic gadgets such as TV sets, mobile phones, smart phones, computers, laptop, music systems, chargers, etc.
- All such items when not in proper usable condition are thrown away.
- These gadgets are made up of heavy metals and non biodegradable materials.
- They remain accumulated in nature for a very long time.
- The heavy metals such as lead, beryllium, mercury and cadmium are also very hazardous in nature.
- E-waste affects human health and soil microorganism.
- Burning, land-filling of E-waste is also dangerous for environment.
- Owing to greater proportion of waste and their hazardous nature, the disposal and handling of E-waste is becoming serious issue.
Waste is a valuable resource, if managed properly, because:
- Waste can be used for material recovery.
- Through different processes like pyrolysis, gas and electricity can be generated.
- The organic wastes can be used to produce bio-gas that supplies fuel and electricity.
- Biodegradable wastes could converted into manures and bio-gas.
- Variety of wastes, especially, non- biodegradable wastes can be recycled and reused in altered form.
