HillNote
Electrical and electronic equipment waste (e-waste) is made up of large appliances, small devices (like telephones and computers), batteries, fluorescent light bulbs and used cables. In 2019, the world generated 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste, equivalent to the weight of 350 cruise ships, and this quantity could rise by 40% before 2030. Because e-waste contains both toxic substances and precious metals, it should not be disposed of with regular garbage. E-waste needs to be formally managed to better use the raw materials it contains and to protect the environment and the health of workers. For a better understanding of the issues e-waste raises, this HillNote looks at the environmental considerations and transboundary movements associated with their management.