The growing volume of electronic waste, such as mobiles, laptops, TVs, fridges and electrical toys, poses a major threat to the environment and human health, the United Nations has warned.
In 2016, only about 20%, or 8.9 million metric tonnes, of all e-waste was recycled.
In 2016, it was estimated that e-waste contained rich deposits of gold, silver, copper, platinum, palladium and other high-value recoverable materials.
Their total value is estimated at $55 billion, a figure exceeding the gross domestic product of most countries in the world.
The Global E-Waste Monitor 2017, released by ITU, the UN University (UNU) and the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), highlights increasing levels of e-waste and its improper and unsafe treatment and disposal through burning or at dumpsites.
‘Environmental protection is one of the three pillars of sustainable development […] E-waste management is an urgent issue in today’s digitally dependent world, where use of electronic devices is ever increasing.’
HOULIN ZHAO
Secretary-general of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
In 2016, 44.7 million metric tonnes of e-waste were generated, an increase of 3.3 million metric tonnes, or 8%, from 2014. Experts foresee e-waste increasing a further 17% to 52.2 million metric tonnes by 2021.
As 53.6% of global households now have internet access, national e-waste policies and legislation play an important role governing the actions of those associated with e-waste.
Currently 66% of the world’s population, living in 67 countries, is covered by national e-waste management laws – a significant increase from 44% in 2014.
Click here to find out which big brands are failing the green electronics guide.
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