India Faces Health and Environmental Crisis Due to Improper E-waste Recycling
India is the third-largest e-waste generator globally, producing 2.2 million tonnes in 2025. A majority of this is processed in the informal sector using crude methods like acid baths and open-air burning. This releases toxic substances like lead, cadmium, and mercury, causing severe health issues including respiratory diseases, neurological damage, and DNA damage. Children in recycling clusters are particularly vulnerable, showing high levels of lead in their blood. While the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), implementation remains weak, and the informal sector still handles 95% of the waste.
Key Points
- India generates 2.2 million tonnes of e-waste annually, with only 43% officially processed as of 2023-24.
- Informal recycling releases persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals into the environment.
- E-waste exposure is linked to reduced IQ, behavioral disorders, and respiratory ailments, especially in children.
- The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, mandate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers.
Exam Facts
- 2.2 million tonnes of e-waste (2025 estimate)
- 3rd largest generator globally
- E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
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