E-waste management and its effects on the environment and human health

• Published in: The Science of the total environment 2021-06, Vol.773, p.145623, Article 145623
• Main Authors: Rautela, Rahul, Arya, Shashi, Vishwakarma, Shilpa, Lee, Jechan, Kim, Ki-Hyun, Kumar, Sunil
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: E-waste regulation; Electronic Waste - analysis; Electronics; Environmental risk; Humans; Informal recycling; Occupational health hazard; Recycling; Sustainable management; Waste Management
• ISSN: 0048-9697; 1879-1026
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145623

Challenges in managing electronic waste (E-waste) arise from a lack of technical skills, poor infrastructure, inadequate financial support, and inactive community engagement. This study provides a systematic review of efforts to overcome these challenges in the context of inappropriate recycling protocols of E-waste and their toxic effects on human health and the environment. An inventory of end-of-life electronic products, which can be established through the creation of an environment friendly regulatory regime for recycling, is essential for the proper control of E-waste. An approach has been articulated to help implement effective management of E-waste in both developed and developing countries. Enforcement of systematic management measures for E-waste in developing countries coupled with best practices is expected to minimize adverse impacts while helping maintain a sustainable and resilient environment. [Display omitted] •Almost 82.6% of global E-waste is recycled informally in unorganized sectors.•Toxic effect of E-waste to human health and environment is studied comprehensively.•A sustainable approach has been articulated for effective management of E-wastes.•Formalizing informal sector is crucial for propelling effective E-waste management.