Electronic waste has grown to record levels. Here's why that's a huge problem | CNN
Global e-waste crisis growing faster than recycling efforts, posing health and environmental risks.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Global electronic waste, or e-waste, has hit record levels, growing much faster than recycling rates. The world produced 62 million metric tons of e-waste in 2022, but only 22.3% was recycled. This has significant health, environmental, and climate implications due to the toxic substances in e-waste. Despite some countries having e-waste policies, enforcement remains a challenge. Manufacturers are urged to take responsibility for end-of-life product management. Proper e-waste recycling can cut carbon emissions and reclaim valuable metals. There is a call for investment in infrastructure, promoting repair and reuse, and halting illegal e-waste dumping to address this escalating crisis.