Abstract

In an approach to bridge the digital divide, it is necessary to get an affordable, equitable and equality access to ICT. It is estimated that two third of world‟s population is still offline so there is a need to provide affordable access to internet for all. As we all know India is a developing country so for the developing countries, it has become a priority area to alleviate poverty by promoting access to ICT. At the same time, tremendous growth in use of electronic devices and services, faster change of technology and frequent innovations in electronic sector, had left the world with a threat of deterioration in environmental conditions and human health as the-waste of electronic, electrical and computer equipment, which contains hazardous components, is still handled in an environmentally unfriendly manner mainly in developing nations. It is huge challenge for the nations to handle e-waste in responsible manner and protect the environment. In this paper an approach is made towards assessing the present situation of ewaste management globally as well as in India, considering the present regulations and guidelines. It is also a fact that major part of recycling of e-waste is being handled by informal sector who have little/no knowledge about the consequences of exposure to hazardous substances. To address the issue of e-waste management in a sustainable method, the concept of EPR (extended producer responsibility) will be helpful if the regulations incorporate monitoring and penalty clauses. The reuse of EEE has greater environmental and social benefits than recycling as it increases the useful life time of the ICT equipment and enables greater resource efficiency and energy efficiency. In developing nations, it can help in uplifting the status of the informal sector with help of education and employment. In addition to the technical, social and organizational aspects of the EEE-waste management system, it is also crucial to consider the economic aspects, if the system has to be made financially viable and sustainable along with being socially acceptable.