WHAT DO WE DO WITH OUR E-WASTE?

A Research on the level of Awareness and Management of E-waste

BS-ENGLISH
5A - MORNING
GROUP MEMBERS
ARFA AHMAD AWAN
SYEDA TAMKEEN ZAHRA NAQVI
ALISHA ABBASI
ZUNAIRA AMJAD
HINA BASHARAT

ABSTRACT:
Electronic waste, also known as e-waste, has arisen as a major global environmental and public
health concern due to its rapid buildup and complex disposal processes. This research paper
provides a complete overview of e-waste, including its sources, management strategies, and the
consequences of inappropriate disposal. We conducted surveys to learn about public opinions
and behaviours about e-waste disposal, and our literature review provided insight into existing
industry practices and regulatory frameworks.
Our data analysis, demonstrated graphically, depicts the growing volume of e-waste and its
related hazards, such as harmful compounds seeping into the land and water. We evaluate
existing e-waste recycling and disposal strategies to find inefficiencies and sustainability issues.
Furthermore, our findings show the necessity of raising knowledge about responsible e-waste
management, emphasizing the roles of governments, producers, and consumers in addressing the
issue.
The findings underline the critical need for a strong, global strategy to e-waste regulation and
recycling infrastructure. We advocate for greater stakeholder collaboration to develop creative
solutions and promote ecologically sustainable practices. Our work adds to the corpus of
knowledge by making concrete recommendations for better e-waste management and stimulating
further research on this crucial subject.
INTRODUCTION:
Definition:
Electronic waste, commonly known as e-waste, is defined as discarded electronic gadgets or
their components. These products may include old computers, televisions, smartphones, tablets,
and other devices or appliances that have reached the end of their useful lives. Batteries, circuit
boards, and other electrical items can all be considered e-waste.
When these gadgets are discarded improperly, they might cause environmental hazards. This is
because they frequently include dangerous compounds such as lead, mercury, and cadmium,
which can leach into the soil and water and endanger humans and wildlife.
Types of e-waste:
E-waste encompasses a wide range of products, from small personal electronics to huge
appliances and equipment. Understanding the different forms of e-waste and the individual
products they contain will help us manage and decrease e-waste more effectively. Here's a full
breakdown of the various sorts of electrical waste:
1. Consumer Electronics:
Mobile Phones: These are perhaps the most common types of e-waste. They include
smartphones and basic cell phones that people replace frequently due to technological
advancements.
  Tablets and e-Readers: Tablets and e-readers are another form of handheld
electronic waste, often replaced for newer models with better features.
 Laptops and Computers: These include both desktop and laptop computers that
are discarded when they become outdated or stop working.
 Televisions and Monitors: Older models, especially CRT (cathode ray tube) TVs
and monitors, are frequently discarded as people upgrade to newer flat-screen
technologies.
2. Home Appliances:
 Small Appliances: Items like toasters, microwaves, coffee makers, and blenders
are frequently discarded when they break or when consumers desire newer
models.
 Large Appliances: These include refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers,
and ovens. Although they have longer lifespans, they eventually become e-waste
when they wear out.
3. Office and Business Equipment:
 Printers and Scanners: These are often replaced as businesses upgrade to more
efficient and faster models.
 Copiers and Fax Machines: These older technologies are becoming less
common but are still disposed of when they break or are no longer needed.
4. Entertainment Devices:
 Audio Equipment: Speakers, headphones, and home theater systems fall into this
category. They may be discarded as consumers seek better sound quality or
wireless options.
 Video Game Consoles and Games: Older consoles and games become obsolete
as newer models are released, contributing to e-waste.
5. Networking and Telecommunication Equipment:
 Routers and Modems: These devices are often replaced as internet technologies
evolve and improve.
 Satellite Dishes and Antennas: As streaming services and other technologies
become more common, these older devices are discarded.
 6. Medical Devices:
 Home Healthcare Devices: Thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and other
personal health devices can become e-waste when they stop working.
 Hospital Equipment: Though not typically managed at a consumer level,
hospital machines and diagnostic equipment eventually become e-waste.
7. Lighting:
 Light Bulbs: CFL and LED bulbs contain electronic components and are
considered e-waste when discarded.
 Lamps and Lighting Fixtures: Older lighting fixtures may be disposed of when
upgrading home or office lighting.
8. Batteries:
 Rechargeable and Non-Rechargeable Batteries: Used in many electronic
devices, batteries often contain toxic chemicals and require special disposal.
9. Miscellaneous:
 Wearable Tech: Items like smartwatches and fitness trackers are becoming more
common as e-waste.
 Digital Cameras and Camcorders: As smartphones replace them, these devices
are more frequently discarded.
 GPS Devices: GPS units in cars or handheld devices may be discarded as
smartphones take over their functions.
Importance of e-waste management:
Electronic garbage, or e-waste, is growing more relevant as technology advances and more
people use electronic devices like computers, smartphones, and televisions. Understanding the
significance of e-waste is critical for both environmental and health concerns. When e-waste is
incorrectly disposed of, toxic elements such as lead, mercury, and cadmium can leach into the
land and water, causing severe environmental contamination. Proper e-waste recycling helps to
conserve valuable resources like metals and rare earth elements by recovering them for reuse.
This technique also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage.
E-waste has an influence on human health, as exposure to pollutants from improper disposal can
cause respiratory difficulties, skin irritations, and other long-term health consequences.
Furthermore, improper e-waste disposal in specific places might endanger workers and the
surrounding populations. Proper e-waste management not only protects public health but also
generates economic opportunities in the recycling and refurbishment industries.
1. Environmental Protection:
 Preventing Pollution: E-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, mercury,
cadmium, and brominated flame retardants, which can pollute the soil, air, and
water if not properly managed. Proper disposal and recycling of e-waste help
prevent the release of these toxic substances into the environment.
 Conserving Natural Resources: Electronics contain precious metals such as
gold, silver, and copper, as well as rare earth elements. By recycling e-waste,
these valuable materials can be recovered and reused, reducing the need for new
mining and conserving natural resources.
 Reducing Carbon Footprint: Manufacturing new electronics requires energy
and resources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Efficient recycling and
reuse of e-waste reduce the demand for new products, which in turn lowers the
carbon footprint associated with electronics production.
2. Protecting Human Health:
 Preventing Toxic Exposure: When e-waste is improperly managed or disposed
of in landfills or incinerators, toxic chemicals can leach into the environment and
ultimately contaminate air, water, and soil. This can lead to health issues in
humans, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even neurological
damage.
 Ensuring Safe Workplaces: Proper e-waste management can ensure that
recycling facilities and workers are protected from exposure to hazardous
materials. Safe recycling practices involve measures such as protective
equipment, proper ventilation, and safe handling techniques.
3. Economic Benefits:
 Job Creation: The e-waste recycling industry creates jobs in collection,
transportation, sorting, and processing of electronic waste. This can contribute to
local economies and provide employment opportunities.
 Resource Recovery: Efficient e-waste management allows for the recovery of
valuable materials such as metals, plastics, and glass, which can be sold or
repurposed. This generates revenue and helps offset the costs of recycling.
 Stimulating Innovation: As demand for e-waste recycling grows, it encourages
innovation in recycling technologies and processes, potentially leading to new
business opportunities and advancements in the industry.
 4. Compliance with Regulations:
 Legal Requirements: Many countries have laws and regulations in place to
manage e-waste safely and responsibly. Proper e-waste management helps ensure
compliance with these legal requirements and avoids fines or penalties for
improper disposal.
 Corporate Responsibility: For businesses, managing e-waste responsibly
demonstrates a commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmental
stewardship. This can improve a company's reputation and foster trust among
consumers and stakeholders.
5. Contributing to a Circular Economy:
 Extending Product Life: Reusing, refurbishing, and recycling electronics extend
the life of products and components. This shift towards a circular economy
reduces waste and promotes sustainable consumption.
 Closing the Loop: By recycling and reusing materials from e-waste, we can
create a closed-loop system where resources are continuously repurposed. This
minimizes the extraction of new materials and waste generation.
6. Global Impact:
 Addressing Global E-Waste: Proper management of e-waste can help address
the global challenge of e-waste, which is especially important given the increasing
volumes of e-waste being generated worldwide. International cooperation and
initiatives are necessary to tackle e-waste on a global scale.
 Supporting Developing Nations: Developing countries often lack the
infrastructure for proper e-waste management. By improving global e-waste
management, we can reduce the burden on these nations and prevent harmful
practices such as informal recycling.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH IMPACTS OF E-WASTE
With the advancement of technology the generation of e-waste has become a global issue.
Electronic devices provide us efficiency but when these devices are not disposed properly then
they can create environmental and health problems. The environmental and health impacts of E-
waste are significant.
Environmental Impacts:
The environmental impacts of E-waste include air, water, soil pollution, resource depletion and
toxic chemical release.
 1. Air Pollution: Improper disposal of e-waste can cause air pollution. Burning of e-waste
is a common practice but it can releases toxic fumes and pollute our air. When living
things breathe in this air it can lead to cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, and
other health issues.
2. Soil pollution: Dumping of e-waste in landfills can pollute soil with heavy metals and
chemicals. Thus the soil becomes unsuitable for agriculture. Moreover, it can also pose
risks to plant and animal life.
3. Water Pollution: When e-waste is not properly managed, rainwater can wash pollutants
from landfills into nearby water bodies. It can pollute rivers, groundwater sources and
lakes. It can harm aquatic ecosystems and also endanger living things that rely on these
water sources
4. Resource Depletion: Electronics contain valuable materials. These materials include
silver, copper, and other rare elements. When e-waste is not recycled properly, these
resources are lost. Then they have to be extracted again from the earth. It can lead to
destruction of habitat and greenhouse gas emissions which are associated with mining
and refining processes.
Health Impacts:
Health impacts caused by E-waste can be classified into occupational hazards, global health
impacts and communities health risks
1. Occupational Hazards: Workers in e-waste recycling facilities are exposed to
occupational hazards as they often work in unsafe conditions. They are exposed to toxic
chemicals during dismantling and processing activities of e-waste. It can lead to acute
and chronic health problems such as respiratory diseases and skin disorders.
2. Global Health Impact: E-waste is a global issue. Its impacts often extend beyond the
regions where it is generated. Through the global trade of electronic waste, toxic
substances can be transported across countries. This can affect communities in other
countries and regions where environmental laws and enforcements are weaker.
3. Community Health Risks: Communities living near e-waste disposal sites are also at
risk of exposure to hazardous substances because of air, water, and soil contamination.
This can result in several fatal diseases such as cancer and other health issues including
birth defects and developmental disorders.
ELECTRONIC WASTE IN GUIYU
Guiyu is widely perceived as one of the world largest e-waste site in the world. Located in
Guangdong province, it has become a major destination for e-waste recycling. It has thousands
of migrant workers who dismantle and process electronic devices in informal recycling
operations. The economy of the village is heavily dependent on e-waste recycling, but unsafe
disposal methods have caused environmental and health problems.
1. Environmental Impact: The unsafe recycling methods used in the village release toxic
substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium into the environment. It has
 contamination of soil, water sources, and air. It has also posed risks to local ecosystems
and agricultural lands. Once a rice village, the pollution has made Guiyu unable to
produce crops for food. And the water of the river has also become undrinkable. Studies
have found higher levels of heavy metals and hazardous chemicals in the surrounding.
2. Health Impact: The Residents of Guiyu face serious health risks from exposure to
hazardous substances released during e-waste recycling. Respiratory illnesses, skin
disorders, neurological damage, and higher rates of cancer have been reported among
residents, particularly children. Prolonged exposure to toxic pollutants from e-waste
recycling activities has led to widespread health problems and reduced quality of life for
many in Guiyu. 80% of children in the village are now suffering from lead
poisoning. Higher miscarriage rates are also reported in this region.
ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF E-WASTE
In addition to its environmental and health impacts, electronic waste also has significant
economic implications. Electronic devices have short life span and high turnover rate. It has led
rapid growth of discarded electronics worldwide. It is necessary for policymakers and society to
understand to properly understand the economic dimension to meet its challenges effectively. E-
waste has both positive and negative implications for the society.
1. Costs of E-waste Management: The management and disposal of e-waste incur
significant costs for governments, businesses, and consumers. Authorities must
allocate proper resources for collection, and treatment of e-waste. These resources
include specialized facilities for recycling and disposal. Moreover, Businesses face
expenses related to compliance with e-waste regulations and liability for
environmental damage.
2. Resource Recovery and Recycling Industry: E-waste contains valuable materials
such as silver, copper, and other rare earth metals. Recycling of these materials from
e-waste can contribute to the economy as it can reduce the need for raw material
extraction. It can also lower the cost for production manufacturer. The recycling
industry associated with e-waste management can create jobs for the people and
stimulate economic growth.
3. Global Trade: E-waste is often exported from developed countries to developing
countries for recycling and disposal. Although it can provide economic opportunities
for the developing countries but it can also lead to environmental and health risks if
the waste is not managed properly. Developing countries should impose regulations
on the import and export of e-waste to address these environmental and health
concerns.
4. Costs of Improper Disposal: Improper disposal of e-waste can cause significant
economic costs for the society. These costs include environmental cleanup expenses
and healthcare costs associated with treating health problems caused by exposure to
 hazardous substances. Governments and communities have to bear these costs which
impact resources and economy of the country.
5. Technological Innovation: The need to address e-waste challenges has led
technological innovation in recycling processes and waste management technologies.
Those Companies which are investing in e-waste management technologies can
benefit economically by, accessing new markets, and meeting regulatory
requirements.
LEGISLATION AND POLICIES REGARDING E-WASTE
Legislation and policies regarding e-waste management play a crucial role in addressing the
environmental, health, and economic challenges. Governments are now recognizing the need for
comprehensive frameworks to manage e-waste properly. Through legislations and policies
governments aim to establish guidelines and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the proper
management of e-waste.
1. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive: It is a legislative
framework established by the European Union to address the management of
electronic waste. It aims to minimize the impacts of e-waste by promoting its
recycling. Since its adoption in 2003, it has played a crucial role in improving the
management of electronic waste in the EU. It has led to increased collection rates and
reduced environmental pollution from e-waste.
2. E-Waste Management Rules, 2016: India formulated these rules in 2016 for the
effective management e-waste in the country. These rules outline responsibilities for
producers, consumers, and recyclers to minimize the environmental impact of e-waste
disposal.
3. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): In the United States, the
RCRA governs the management of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, including e-
waste. Although there is no federal e-waste law, but several states have implemented
their own regulations, such as the Electronic Waste Recycling Act in California.

E-WASTE MANAGEMENT IN PAKISTAN

In Pakistan e-waste management is becoming important due to growing use of electronic
devices. Pakistan has also emerged as a major destination for large volume of electrical and
electronic waste coming from the United States, EU, and Australia. (Ilyas, Srivastava, Kim, &
Abbas, 2020). An estimated 433 kilo tons of electronic waste is being generated in the Pakistan
every year. Moreover, Child labor is engaged in extracting these poisonous components which
include mercury, lead, Cadmium, arsenic and beryllium. Exposure to these substances can have
serious and lasting consequences for children's health and development. It can lead to
neurological damage, respiratory issues, increased cancer risk, impaired immune function,
reproductive and developmental disorders.
 1. Pakistan Environmental Act 1997:
The Pakistan Environmental Protection Act of 1997 provides a legal framework for
environmental conservation and management in Pakistan. MNA Shahida Rehmani on May 11,
2022 introduced a bill in the National Assembly that sought an amendment in the Pakistan
Environment Protection Act 1997 regarding management of electronic waste. The amendment
sought to ensure the safe handling and disposal of hazardous electronic waste. The amendment
came into force immediately and was called the Pakistan Environmental Protection
(Amendment) Act, 2021. Before this amendment the Pakistan Environment Protection Act,
1997, did not cover the safe handling and disposal of hazardous electronic waste. So, this
amendment was a crucial step towards environmental protection in Pakistan.
1. Provincial Regulations: Some provinces in Pakistan, such as Punjab, have developed
their own regulations and guidelines for e-waste management. For example, Punjab
Environmental Act 1997. It was established by the Punjab Environmental
Protection Department to regulate hazardous substances including E- waste within
the province.

LITERATURE REVIEW OF E-WASTE

In this review the first question rises that what is E-waste? E-waste (electronic
waste) refers to discarded electronic devices Due to the rapid advancement of technology and the
increasing consumption of electronic devices, the volume of e-waste generated worldwide is
growing exponentially, making it crucial to understand and address this issue effectively.
 Importance of e-waste management:
Proper management of e-waste is essential due to its significant environmental,
social, and economic impacts. Improper disposal of e-waste can lead to pollution of soil, water,
and air, as well as the contamination of food and drinking water sources. The toxic substances
present in e-waste can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, respiratory
issues, and developmental disorders. Furthermore, e-waste contains valuable materials such as
gold, silver, copper, and rare earth metals, which can be recovered and reused through recycling.
Effective e-waste management not only protects human health and the environment but also
conserves valuable resources and reduces the carbon footprint associated with the extraction and
production of new electronic devices.
 Purpose of the literature review of e-waste:
The purpose of this literature review is to lookout at existing research and
literature on e-waste management, with a focus on understanding current practices, identifying
challenges, and exploring potential solutions. By synthesizing and analyzing the available
information, this literature review aims to provide insights into the environmental, social, and
economic aspects of e-waste management. Additionally, this review seeks to highlight gaps in
the existing literature and areas for further research, ultimately contributing to the development
of more effective strategies for the sustainable management of e-waste.
Current E-Waste Management Practices
 Recycling methods and technologies:
Recycling methods and technologies play a crucial role in the effective
management of e-waste. Various recycling methods, such as mechanical shredding, pyro
metallurgical processes, and hydrometallurgical processes, are used to recover valuable materials
from electronic devices. Mechanical shredding involves shredding e-waste into small pieces,
which are then sorted and separated based on material properties. Pyro metallurgical processes
use high temperatures to separate and recover metals from e-waste, while hydrometallurgical
processes use chemical solutions for metal extraction. Additionally, advancements in recycling
technologies, such as automated sorting systems and environmentally friendly extraction
methods, have improved the efficiency and sustainability of e-waste recycling.
 Legislation and regulations regarding e-waste management:
Legislation and regulations regarding e-waste management vary from country to
country but generally aim to control the generation, disposal, and recycling of electronic waste.
These regulations may include measures such as extended producer responsibility (EPR), which
holds manufacturers responsible for the collection and recycling of their products at the end of
their life cycle.
For example
1. The European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
establishes collection, recycling, and recovery targets for e-waste, as well as requirements
for the safe treatment and disposal of hazardous substances.
2. Countries like Japan and South Korea have implemented strict e-waste recycling laws to
minimize environmental pollution and promote resource conservation. However,
enforcement and compliance with e-waste regulations remain a challenge in many parts
of the world, particularly in developing countries where informal e-waste recycling
practices are prevalent.
 Challenges in e-waste management:
E-waste management faces various challenges, including inadequate collection
infrastructure, informal recycling practices, and the lack of awareness and enforcement of e-
waste regulations. In many parts of the world, there is a lack of organized collection systems for
e-waste, leading to improper disposal and informal recycling methods such as open burning and
acid leaching, which pose serious health and environmental risks. Additionally, the rapid pace of
technological innovation and product obsolescence exacerbates the e-waste problem, making it
difficult for existing recycling infrastructure to keep up with the growing volume of electronic
waste. Furthermore, the global nature of the e-waste trade and the complex supply chains of
electronic products make it challenging to track and regulate the flow of e-waste across borders.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, manufacturers,
recyclers, and consumers to develop sustainable e-waste management strategies and promote a
circular economy.
Economic Aspects of E-Waste
 Value of e-waste materials:
E-waste contains valuable materials such as gold, silver, copper, and rare earth
metals that can be recovered and reused through recycling. For example, a ton of circuit boards
can contain up to 800 times more gold than a ton of mined ore. By extracting these valuable
materials from e-waste, recycling not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the
environmental impact and energy consumption associated with the extraction and production of
new electronic devices.
 Economic benefits of proper e-waste management:
Proper e-waste management offers various economic benefits, including job
creation, revenue generation, and cost savings. For instance, the recycling and refurbishment of
electronic devices create employment opportunities in collection, sorting, dismantling, and
recycling activities. Additionally, selling refurbished electronic products or recovered materials
generates revenue for recyclers and contributes to the local economy. Furthermore, by extending
the lifespan of electronic devices through repair and refurbishment, proper e-waste management
reduces the need for new product manufacturing, saving businesses and consumers money.
 Economic challenges in e-waste recycling:
Despite the economic benefits, e-waste recycling faces several challenges, including
high recycling costs, inadequate infrastructure, and fluctuating market prices for recycled
materials. For example, the costs associated with collecting, transporting, sorting, and recycling
e-waste can be prohibitive, particularly in regions with limited resources and infrastructure.
Moreover, the market prices for recycled materials such as metals and plastics are subject to
volatility, making it difficult for recyclers to maintain profitability. Additionally, the lack of
standardized recycling processes and regulations can hinder investment in e-waste recycling
facilities and technology development. Addressing these economic challenges is essential for the
long-term viability and sustainability of e-waste recycling initiatives.
Environmental Impact:
 Soil and Water Pollution:
Improper disposal of e-waste can lead to the leaching of toxic substances such as
lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants into the soil and groundwater. These
contaminants can persist in the environment for years, posing risks to ecosystems and human
health. For example, in Agbogbloshie, Ghana, one of the largest e-waste recycling sites in the
world, soil and water samples have been found to contain high levels of heavy metals and other
hazardous chemicals due to informal recycling practices.
Public Health Issues:
 Occupational Hazards:
Informal e-waste recycling activities often involve manual dismantling of electronic
devices without proper safety equipment, exposing workers to hazardous materials and
conditions. Workers, including children, often work long hours in unsafe conditions for little
pay, putting their health and well-being at risk. For example, in Agbogbloshie, Ghana, workers
manually dismantle electronic devices using hammers, pliers, and open fires, exposing
themselves to toxic fumes and heavy metals without adequate protection. (E-Waste: Current
Research and Future Perspective on Developing Countries-waste management: A review of
recycling process, environmental and occupational health hazards, and potential solutions, by
Rajesh Ahirwar)
Transferring of E-waste from developed countries to poor countries:
 Exporting Second-Hand Electronics:
Developed countries export used electronic devices, such as computers, laptops, and
mobile phones, to developing countries for reuse. While some of these devices may still be
functional and usable, many are obsolete or non-functional and end up as e-waste. For example,
old computers and mobile phones from developed countries are often shipped to countries like
Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, where they are either refurbished for resale or dismantled
for parts.
 Informal Recycling Networks:
Informal networks of e-waste traders and recyclers facilitate the transfer of e-waste
from developed countries to poor countries. These networks often operate outside of official
regulations and export e-waste to countries with lax environmental and labor standards. For
example, e-waste traders in developed countries may sell e-waste to brokers in Pakistan,
Bangladesh, and Indonesia, who then sell it to informal recyclers for processing.
E-waste management system in developing countries:
In India:
In India, only 2 percent of India’s total e-waste are recycled because of the lack of
legislation and poor infrastructure. This has led to a waste of the diminishing natural resources.
In India, several stakeholders are involved in managing the e-waste, so it originates from many
sources and does not follow single set path. Most of the e-waste end up with scrap dealers and
traders for economic benefits, which end to unorganized sectors. Problems that faces the e-waste
management system are lack information about flow and quantum of e-waste, poor
infrastructure, poor implementation rules of e-waste.
Bangladesh:
Bangladesh the most popular method of e waste management is the dumping into
landfills, a small amount of e-waste are recycled. Fresh drives have initiated by policymakers in
order to increase the disposal of e-waste, one of these policies is adopting stringent for e-waste
management policy. Bangladesh is responsible of 7% of e-waste dumping annually all over the
world. Different types from of e waste are produced in Bangladesh every year. It produced from
different sources such as mobile phones, televisions etc. The majority of these wastes are
dumped in landfilling or in open water.( E-Waste Management in Different Countries:
Strategies, Impacts, and Determinants, by Shireen Ibrahim Mohammed)
  Implications of the literature review for e-waste management:
The literature review on e-waste management has several implications for policy,
practice, and future research. Firstly, it provides insights into current e-waste management
practices, including recycling methods, legislation, and challenges, helping policymakers and
practitioners identify areas for improvement. For example, the review may highlight the need for
stricter regulations on e-waste recycling and disposal or the development of more sustainable
recycling technologies. Secondly, the review identifies gaps in the existing literature and areas
for further research, such as the environmental and health impacts of emerging e-waste recycling
technologies or the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns on e-waste reduction. By
addressing these gaps, future research can contribute to the development of more effective e-
waste management strategies and promote a circular economy. Overall, the literature review
serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working to address
the growing challenges of e-waste management in a sustainable and environmentally responsible
manner. The impacts of e-waste on poor countries are significant and multifaceted, affecting
both the environment and public health.
SURVEY
Survey-Based Cross-Sectional Study:
This survey-based cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of awareness regarding
electronic waste (e-waste) management among individuals in Pakistan. A Google Form
questionnaire consisting of 15 close-ended questions, each with multiple options, was used to
collect responses from 52 participants. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and
percentages, were employed to analyze the data and understand the distribution of responses.
The findings highlight varying levels of awareness and knowledge gaps among participants,
providing insights into e-waste awareness in Pakistan.
Research Design: This study adopts a survey-based cross-sectional design to gather data from a
specific point in time, capturing the e-waste awareness of participants.
Sampling Method: A non-probability convenience sampling method was employed, targeting
individuals who voluntarily responded to the Google Form questionnaire distributed through
online platforms.
Data Collection Instrument: The Google Form questionnaire consisted of 15 close-ended
questions, each offering 4 to 5 options for participants to choose from. The questions covered
areas such as disposal habits, environmental impact awareness, education/training on e-waste,
and support for recycling initiatives.
Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to
analyze the responses and identify patterns in e-waste awareness among participants. Cross-
tabulation and chi-square analysis were conducted to explore potential associations between
demographic variables and e-waste awareness levels.
ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE
AGE:
The questionnaire was filled by many people ranging from 14 to 48 years of age. But major
number fell between 18 to 23 years.

QUESTION 01

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RESULTS:
The analysis of responses from 52 participants revealed varying levels of e-waste awareness in
Pakistan. People from 14 to 48 years of age participated in the survey. The result overall shows
that people lack basic awareness about e waste. Out of 100 only 51.9% people have heard about
e waste, and almost half people (48.1%) are not even familiar with the term e waste. Almost
28.8% people were not sure about the exact meaning of e waste. Moreover, the survey showed
that 53.8% rarely or never dispose of their e waste. 26.9 % people claimed to dispose of the e
waste yearly. Apart from this the survey showed that a majority (44.2%) dispose of their
electronic devices by selling or giving them away. However, it is shocking to know that
according to the survey 25 % people dispose their e waste by throwing directly in trash. It is also
interesting to note that 23.1% people keep them unused. Only 5.8% people opted recycling the e
waste at the designated centers. It is worrisome to know that only 25% people are aware of the
environmental impact of improper e waste disposal. 40.4% are only somewhat aware about the
impact and 34.6% people simply do not the impact of improper e waste disposal.
The survey further shows that a majority (58.8%) people have some idea about the correlation of
e waste disposal methods and public health issues. 23.3% people are not sure and 17.6% do not
think that such a correlation exists. Moreover, the study shows mixed results on witnessing of
environmental pollution caused by improper e waste disposal. 37% people have occasionally
experienced it, 27.5% people have frequently experienced environmental pollution caused by
improper e waste disposal. On the other hand, 11.8% have never experienced such thing and
23.5% are not sure. It is interesting to note that 75% people have awareness about the
responsibility of properly disposing the electronic waste. On the other hand, the survey shows
that 76.9% people have never actively sought information about e waste recycling. There are
only 23.1 % people who claim to have actively sought information about e waste recycling.
The study further shows that 33.3% people have never considered the economic value of
recycling electronic devices and 35.3% are not sure about this. Only 31.4% people have some
idea about the economic value of recycling electronic devices. It is however interesting that
when asked whether people have ever participated in e waste recycling program a majority of
almost 54.9% people said they have not but they showed an interest in taking part in such
activities in the future. And 33.3% people responded that they have never participated because
they have never had the opportunity. Moreover, people gave their opinion on improvement of
awareness and practices of e waste management. 42.3% people suggested this by education and
campaigns about e waste management and 25% people think that government regulations can
really help increasing the awareness of e waste management in Pakistan.
The survey shows that 58.8% people have not received any education or training about e waste
management majorly because they have never had the chance. Only 13.7% people have sought
information about e waste through informal education or self-learning. 15.7% people showed no
interest in getting information about the topic. A majority of people agreed that the government
should do more to promote e waste recycling and awareness. Interestingly, 54.9% people are
very likely interested in supporting initiatives or campaigns aimed at raising awareness about e
waste management. 29.4% people are likely and the rest 13.7% people showed that they are
neutral in this regard.
SITE VISIT AND INTERVIEW
We visited an electronic waste scrap dealer at Dubai Plaza Rawalpindi. We visited the place
where all the scrap was collected and set for further processing. We interviewed the head dealer
Mr. Mahmood Ali. He explained the entire chain of electronic waste management in Pakistan.

He said that they deal with all kinds of electronic waste. When all the equipment are scrapped
they break down them and separate different materials like plastic and then extract the different
metals like copper, silver, iron etc. these metals are then brought by different dealers who require
them and use them either after reusing or recycling. Apart from this, electronic waste which
contain gold like motherboards are exported to China where Chinese companies extract out the
gold and use it in new technology.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, this survey-based study offers valuable insights into the state of e-waste awareness
and management practices in Pakistan. The findings reveal a concerning lack of basic
understanding among participants, highlighting significant gaps in knowledge and suboptimal
disposal behaviors.
Overall, the study paints a picture of a population largely unfamiliar with the concept of e-waste
and its environmental implications. Many respondents demonstrated inadequate disposal habits,
including the alarming tendency to discard electronic devices directly into the trash. This not
only contributes to environmental pollution but also poses potential health risks to communities.
Despite these challenges, there is a notable interest among participants in engaging with e-waste
management initiatives and supporting awareness campaigns. However, barriers such as limited
access to education and training hinder widespread adoption of responsible practices.
SOLUTIONS:
E-waste contains both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. It is everyone's responsibility to
ensure that hazardous waste is handled in a safe and environment-friendly manner, complying
with all waste disposal regulations.
Here is how we as consumers can lessen E-waste production:
1. Encourage repair of electronic devices instead of immediately replacing them when they
malfunction. Many gadgets can be fixed or upgraded with relatively low cost and effort.
2. Opt for electronics with modular designs that allow for easy repair and component
replacement. This extends the lifespan of the device and reduces the need for complete
replacements.
3. Opt for high quality electronics that are built to last longer. Go for brands known for
durability and reliability. This reduces the frequency of replacements and, consequently,
the amount of e-waste generated.
4. Instead of throwing away electronics, donate them to charities or sell them to someone
who can still use them. This gives device second life and reduces waste.
5. Safe disposal methods to prevent environmental contamination from hazardous
components in e-waste.
6. Take advantage of recycling programs offered by manufacturers, retailers, or local
governments.
7. If recycling isn't an option, dispose of e-waste correctly at designated facilities to prevent
it from ending up in landfills or being illegally exported to developing countries where it
may be mishandled.
REFERENCES
 E-Waste Management in Different Countries: Strategies, Impacts, and Determinants ,by
Shireen Ibrahim Mohammed
 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949750723000135
 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342685930
 E-Waste_Current_Research_and_Future_Perspective_on_Developing_Countries
 Ilyas, S., Srivastava, R. R., Kim, H., & Abbas, Z. (Year). Electrical and electronic waste
in Pakistan: the management practices and perspectives.