Ramya Ravi.
WHAT IS E-WASTE ?
E-waste or electronic waste are items that are generated from electrical or electronic usage. In other words, it is unwanted high tech trash.
EXAMPLES OF E-WASTE ARE:
● Large appliances such as refrigerator, washing machine, television, air conditioners, cookers, micro ovens, etc.,
● Small appliances such as toasters, iron boxes, hair dryers, hair straightener, etc.,
● Telecommunication and IT equipment such as computer, laptop, printers, fax, mobile phones etc.
WHY DO WE NEED TO ACT NOW?
E-waste contains toxic materials like polyvinyl chloride in wires, mercury, lead, zinc, nickel flam reluctant, barium, chromium and more. When e-waste is thrown away in landfills their toxic materials seep into groundwater affecting both land and sea. Many of us often unknowingly throw our electronics in the trash without understanding the harm it causes to this planet we live in.
E-waste rules, 2011 came into effect from 2012. One of its key features is establishment of the Extended Producer Responsibility.
WHAT IS EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY?
⮚It is an environmental strategy that makes the producer responsible for the entire life cycle of the product, especially for take back, recycle and disposal of the product.
⮚ State Pollution Control Boards were made responsible for enforcement of this guideline under the E-Waste rules, 2011.
1. The e-waste generated during manufacturing and generated from the end life of products should be collected.
2. Such E-wastes should be channelized to a registered refurbisher or dismantler or recycler.
3. Individual Identification code should be provided for product tracking.
4. Contact details of dealers and authorized collection centres should be provided to consumers.
5. The system should be organised and financially equipped.
6. Must ensure safe transportation and storage.
7. Annual reports must be submitted regularly without any delay.
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