Waste Emitted by Electrical and Electronic Appliances in the Country

Ten states generate 70% of the total e-waste generated in the country. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab are among top ten states generating e-waste. A survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows estimated 1.47 lakh MT of e-waste was generated in the country in the year 2005. This is expected to increase to about 8.0 lakh MT by 2012.

At present, management and handling of E-waste is governed under the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008. As per these rules, e-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees. State Pollution Control Boards are empowered to take action in case of violation of these provisions. As per information provided by CPCB, there are 47 authorized e-waste recycling units having total capacity of 2,18,236 metric ton per annum.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests has recently notified a separate regulation entitled E-waste (Management and Handling) Rules 2011, which will come into force from 1st May 2012. As per these Rules, Producers are responsible for collection of e-waste generated from the end of life of their products by setting up collection centers or take back systems either individually or collectively. Collection centers are required to obtain authorization from the State Pollution Control Board concerned. Dismantlers and Recyclers are required to obtain authorization and registration.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Environment and Forests (independent charge) Shrimati Jayanthi Natarajan in a written reply to a question by Miss Anusuiya Uikey in Rajya Sabha today.

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KP