Nurturing Proper Disposal Mechanism For E-waste Is The Need Of The Hour

Electronic products have become the indispensable part of our lives. Whether it is mobile phones, computers, laptops, tabs, battery chargers, ear pods or household appliances like ovens, washing machines, mixer-grinders, grillers, television sets, ACs, Home Theatres and electronic devices are assuming increasing importance in our personal as well as professional lives.

Most of these items come in different price ranges and value added features attracting the brand conscious generation. These are no less than a fashion statement for many. And apart from these, technological advances encourage people to change their devices more often than ever before. Many of these devices therefore end up having a shorter life span.

E-Waste the impending challenge

But little do we realize that this is becoming an impending challenge. E-waste if not disposed properly can be toxic and harmful to humans as well as environment. While people are increasingly becoming aware of waste segregation, a similar approach is needed for e-waste management. E-waste needs to be disposed off differently and not in dry and wet waste bins. There are many NGOs and organisations in almost all cities now which have taken up the responsibility of collecting e-waste and sending it for recycling or refurbishing for reuse.

What should we do as an individual?

Inculcating the principle of 3R’s viz Reduce, Reuse and Recycle in our day to day lives is important. The first one “Reduce” can become a habit with right approach. Even if technology advances rapidly, it does not mean we should change our products every now and then, think whether you need the new features, whether it is worth spending on the new product. Responsible spending is the need of the hour for mother earth. And even if we decide to buy new products, the older ones can be refurbished and used by the needy. And if we dispose off the products properly we can ensure proper recycling of the product.

E-Waste collection in Pune

In Pune APCCI has partnered with the Pune Municipal Corporation and  Poornam EcoVision Foundation for door to door e- waste collection in many parts of the city. As a part of this endeavor e-vehicles have been deployed by APCCI while the system for scheduling a pick up, e-waste segregation for recycling or re-use is being facilitated by Poornam EcoVision foundation. 

Citizens need to call the helpline 7522999155. The representative will call, take information like name, address, e-waste to be discarded and will share the date and time as per the schedule of the e-vehicle. Alternatively QR code has been displayed at various locations and on the collection vehicles, through which the citizens fill up a form to give details. The e-vehicle will pick up the e-waste according to the scheduled time and date.