Topic: e- waste
Q5. “The growing problem of e-waste in India represents both a challenge and an opportunity”. Discuss. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the Question:
E-waste management is a critical issue in India due to rising electronic consumption and improper recycling practices, impacting both the environment and resource efficiency, making it a relevant topic in the context of sustainable development.Key Demand of the Question:
The question requires an analysis of the challenges posed by e-waste in India, the opportunities it presents for economic and environmental gains, and actionable solutions to address the problem comprehensively.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Mention the scale of e-waste generation in India, its global ranking, and the dual nature of the problem—environmental challenges and economic opportunities.
Body:
- Discuss major challenges such as environmental degradation, health hazards, informal sector dominance, lack of infrastructure, and regulatory gaps.
- Highlight opportunities like resource recovery, job creation, support for circular economy, boosting domestic manufacturing, and potential to become a global leader in recycling technologies.
- Provide actionable solutions, including strengthening EPR, formalizing recycling, public awareness campaigns, leveraging technology, and incentivizing startups.
Conclusion
Conclude with the potential for transforming e-waste management into an economic asset while ensuring sustainability, aligning with global commitments like SDG 12.
