E-Waste: effects, causes and prevention

Abstract

Electronic equipment and gadgets are the fastest growing waste stream in many countries now. For many, electronics are a part of life for example cell phones, laptops, TVs, & a growing no. of gadgets. Every year we buy new updated equipments to support our basic needs. Electronic waste is relatively a novel addition to the ever- growing hazardous waste and it contains some very toxic substances. They can cause many health problems like cancer, reproductive disorders, etc. Toxic chemicals in electronics don’t break down over time, instead accumulate in food chain & biosphere. Only a small percentage of e-waste is recycled. Remaining is often dumped or burned in former landfills.The existing management practices related to E-waste in India are reasonably poor and have the potential risk to both human and environment. E-waste has been a problem since years, but growth in technology makes it a crisis today. Hence, the topic chosen deals with the present scenario of e-waste and spread awareness about it.This documentary is based on references from some books, websites, and interviews of experts from VMSS(Vadodara Mahanagar Seva Sadan), Sanjeev Hospital and Kadam Environmental consultants.We cannot stop the use of electronics but in order to save the environment, have to accept measures for dumping e-waste properly. So, our major highlight is based on what is discussed abov