Discarded electrical or electronic devices and their accessories are termed as e-waste (electronic waste). In the last year 2019, almost 53.6 million metric tons were generated all over the globe.
Among which, Asia is on the top of it with a generation of 24.9 million metric tons. But the tragic scenario is to flash that only 17.4% were collected and recycled.
Tragedy begins here with the loss of metals such as gold, silver, copper and other high value, recoverable materials and the hazardous substances such as mercury, lead, cadmium, etc. were either dumped or burned instead of proper collection and management. This is harmful and unwise from the environmental view as well as human health may come in high risk due to the direct and indirect effects on health.
So, in order to create awareness and sensitize younger audiences on the e-waste issues, this day “International E-Waste Day” is celebrated. With the aim to make the youths and the new generations responsible and to bring their families, teachers and the local community in the common umbrella, International E-Waste Day (IEWD) is celebrated.
This concept of IEWD was developed by the Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) forum in 2018. Following this day in the next year 2019, 112 organizations from 48 countries took part. Activities such as conferences and events, online guides, information campaigns, etc. were the highlights. Many international agencies and organizations such as the EU and UN-supported this initiation and praised them and their efforts. This year, in 2020, on the same date 14th October, WEEE forum and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is preparing for this occasion.
“Let’s try to generate less e-waste and make the environment healthy and safe.” So, let’s unite together and work for a better environment, for the next generation and us. Let’s not wait for others to start, a step forward on your own and you will find hundreds of heads with you and will exponentially increase in each step.
More to read at: Weeeforum and e-waste Monitor
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