We must address the missing link in e-waste recycling

Producers must set aside funds for Extended Producer Responsibility fees to be paid under the rules

- ASHOK LAVASA

In a world striving for net-zero emissions, re-use and recycling are central to policy-making. Extended producer responsibility (EPR), which is at the core of India's E-Waste Management Rules of 2022, mandates all producers, importers and brand owners to finance and manage recycling of the waste they generate. EPR places primary responsibility on producers, alongside consumers and municipalities, to build a financially sustainable recycling ecosystem. Yet, many stakeholders struggle with EPR certification due to inadequate planning. EPR must be integrated into company accounting to meet mandated goals and enable a viable e-waste system in India. It is also a key part of corporate ESG mandates.

Our growing burden of e-waste: India's rapid digitalization, urbanization and use of electronics have led to a surge in e-waste. In 2023-24, we generated around 3-4 million tonnes of it, making India the world's third-largest producer. This could rise to 14-15 million tonnes by 2030. Yet, less than 30% is formally recycled; most is handled by the informal sector using hazardous methods like open-air burning and acid leaching, releasing toxins like lead, mercury and brominated flame retardants. These practices pollute air, water and soil, while severely impacting the health and life expectancy of informal workers. Estimates suggest India loses more than ₹80,000 crore every year in critical metal value due to the use of rudimentary extraction techniques in informal recycling. Almost an equal amount is estimated to be lost annually in tax revenue, as most informal recycling is cash-based.