The discarded electronic devices which are of no use anymore are best described as electronic waste or e-waste. As per the analysis of Global E-waste Monitor, in 2019, 53 million tons of electronic waste were produced all around the world whereas, the figure saw a drastic increase in five years, i.e., 21 percent. With such an incredible growth rate, e-waste is now the fastest-growing waste stream in the world.
The largest electronic waste generation is done in China, accounting for a total of 10.1 million tons. However, despite the higher rate, the country is still way behind the list toppers in terms of per capita production, which is relatively less, i.e., 7.2 kg.
On the other hand, per capita production of e-waste in European and Anglo countries is recorded more than 20 kg. According to the infographic, Norway generated about 0.1 million tons of electronic waste with 26 kg per capita production. Followed closely by the UK at second with 23.9 kg of e-waste production in 2019.
Although the production of e-waste is not likely to stop entirely, the manufacturers must focus on safe disposal, reusing, and recycling of the discarded electronic devices in order to diminish the amount of electronic waste generated every year.
Infographic by: Statista.com
