Electronic-Waste (E-Waste) Management and Minimization Practices: A Case Study of Dehradun District (Western Himalayan Region), Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

The unprecedented generation of e-waste is a serious concern, which has become a critical environmental challenge across the world as well as considered as an emerging issue by policy makers, practitioners and researchers. The present paper deals with the case study conducted in four development blocks of Dehradun state (Doiwala, Sahaspur, Raipur and Vikasnagar) in Western Himalayan region from September 2020 to December 2021. We highlight standardized questionnaire based strategy including interviews of key stakeholders (Village head representatives, Education department, Development block officers, Representatives from Municipalities and Pollution Control Board) to evaluate present status of e-waste generation and awareness among communities. The results from the survey revealed that communities have low awareness level about e-waste management rules and regulations, its impact on environment and human health and formal and informal e-waste recycling processes. Besides, we organized training program to various stakeholders for making and repairing of LED bulbs, tube lights and creation of decorative sticks and bamboo carved lamps with respect to e-waste minimization and handling, which has resulted in providing a livelihood opportunity to the community. Folk media workshops (Short film, rap song, posters, leaflets, standees, puppet plays, street shows) were also organized together with launching of “EKU” (E-Waste Management and Minimization) campaign to spread awareness about systematic scientific management of E-waste in a simple and local language. Various e-waste minimization centers were established in Dehradun district on the basis of community recommendations. The study recommends that e-waste management, mitigation and recycling can be accelerated by promoting community awareness campaign, educating them about the benefits of scientific recycling of e-waste and making e-waste recycling as part of their livelihood source.