Policy for Recycling Computer Waste

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) had come out with a report, “Recycling- From E-waste to Resources” in 2009. In this report there is reference of e-waste generated from personal computers in terms of per capita per year. India with generation of less than 0.15 kg/capita/year of e-waste has been shown to be amongst countries with lowest quantity of per capita e-waste from personal computers. Shrimati Jayanthi Natarajan, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment and Forests, stated that the Ministry, has already notified E-Waste Rules in May 2011, which have come into force with effect from 1st May 2012.

The concept of Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) has been enshrined in these rules. As per these Rules, the producers are required to collect e-waste generated from the end of life of their products by setting up collections centers or take back systems either individually or collectively. E-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committee (PCCs). Wastes generated are required to be sold to a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities. The rules have provision for setting up of Collection Centre individually or jointly; or by a registered society or a designated agency; or by an association to collect e-waste, the Minister added.

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