E-Waste are IT equipment, consumer electrical and electronic products, and telecom and networking equipment that are:
E-waste has been around us since the 1970s, but it requires more mention today particularly, only because of its sheer numbers and volume, mostly because of technological changes that occur at lightning speed.
As per E-waste Rule 2016, E-waste is defined as ‘electrical and electronic equipment, whole or in part discarded as waste by the consumer or bulk consumer as well as rejects from manufacturing, refurbishment and repair processes.
When electronic items are used, they are very safe. However, they contain toxic chemicals – beryllium, cadmium, mercury, and lead – and precious metals – silver, gold, copper – that can be used once again. E-waste, when discarded or thrown away, contaminates the soil and water, not only around the landfill but also across a larger area.
E-waste also contains toxic and hazardous materials including mercury, lead, cadmium, beryllium, chromium, and chemical flame retardants, which have the potential to leach into our soil and water.
World Health Organization writes that “health risks may result from direct contact with toxic materials that leach from e-waste. These include minerals such as lead, cadmium, chromium, brominated flame retardants, or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Danger can come from inhalation of the toxic fumes, as well as from the accumulation of chemicals in soil, water, and food.”
Hazardous substances and components in electrical and electronic waste and their impacts on human health are:
E-waste Management Rules (2016), passed by the Government of India, mandate strict guidelines for Producers & Manufacturers of Electronic Equipment for managing their end-of-life products as part of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
WMS is a registered PRO (Producer Responsibility Organization) for E-waste management. It has implemented a sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound collection and recycling mechanism that is consistent with the industry objectives and in compliance with the E-waste (Management) Rules 2016 and its amendments. Our services include: