UNEP calls for efficient handling of 'tsunami of e-waste' around the world

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has highlighted the need to handle tons of electronic waste building up around the world. Achim Steiner, Executive Director, UNEP, was addressing journalists during a recent Conference held in Geneva.

According to UNEP, the ‘tsunami of e-waste’ rolling out over the world constitutes major portion of the world’s non-recyclable waste dump. It also called for careful handling of discarded electronic waste as they contain hazardous elements which could potentially have adverse effects on people and environment.

Steiner also stressed that e-waste generally contains enormous quantities of valuable raw materials including gold, silver and other rare earth metals which could be recovered and reused. The quantities of some such rare earths available in unused electronic devices above ground are significantly higher than the quantities available in the ground. The Convention called upon policy makers to formulate necessary action to protect citizens from toxicity.

As per estimates, nearly one million people die from occupational poisoning every year. The effect of chemicals on people’s bodies has been on the rise for several years now. Government agencies, private sector and chemical industry must join hands in devising innovative techniques towards sound management of hazardous chemicals.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.