India's Growing E-Waste Problem
India’s e-waste generation has increased significantly, rising by 151% from 2017-2024.
India is now among the top e-waste producers globally, generating around 17.78 lakh metric tonnes of e-waste in 2023-24.
Improper management of e-waste leads to severe environmental and social costs, including soil, air, and water pollution.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
EPR requires producers, importers, and brand owners to manage e-waste from their products' end-of-life.
It promotes sustainable design, fair pricing, and better waste management, while reducing the strain on municipalities.
The introduction of EPR floor prices in 2022 aims to ensure fair compensation for recyclers, reducing the dominance of informal recycling practices.
Impact of Improper E-Waste Recycling
Hazardous informal recycling methods cause environmental damage, health risks, and social loss, particularly affecting women and children.
India loses over $10 billion annually due to water, air, and soil pollution from e-waste disposal.
Roughly $20 billion is lost due to informal recycling practices, and billions in critical metal value are forfeited.
Importance of Stable Pricing
The floor price for EPR certificates ensures formal recyclers are incentivized to adopt safe and advanced technologies.
It supports a circular economy by turning e-waste into valuable materials like gold and copper, reducing the environmental burden.
A stable pricing system encourages investment in recycling infrastructure and reduces the influence of informal recyclers.
Recycling Vision for the Future
Adequate floor pricing for e-waste recycling helps formalize the sector, enhances infrastructure, and ensures responsible practices.
It drives innovation, as producers can offset costs by designing durable, recyclable products.
The implementation of EPR floor prices positions India to become a leader in sustainable waste management, benefiting both the environment and economy.
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