Abstract
The exponential growth in electronic waste (e-waste) comprising end-of-life electrical and electronic equipment has emerged as a major environmental concern. E-waste recycling, which comprises systematic collection of e-waste and its treatment for recycling of useful materials, offers a valuable tool to minimize the escalating heap of e-waste, supplement the shortage of some primary resources and support the economy. However, depending on the processing methods used for recycling, e-waste can also be a source of toxic substances, such as heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). To efficiently harness the benefits of e-waste recycling without jeopardizing public health, a holistic approach encompassing improved product design and recycling rate and minimal emission of hazardous e-waste pollutants to the environment is required. In this review, we discuss the opportunities and constraints, and strategies for improved e-waste management. Further, we highlight the recent global trend in e-waste generation and provide an overview of the e-waste recycling process and the impact of e-waste pollutants on human health. Finally, a few strategies that can be implemented to make e-waste recycling an efficient and safer process have been discussed.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have