E-Waste: A Global Problem, Its Impacts, and Solutions

Abstract

E-waste is a major global problem linked to the use, and discard of, electronic and electric devices. While the volume of these obsolete devices continues to increase and accumulate, the means and approaches currently used to reuse, dispose of, recycle, and address this continues to vary widely in terms of availability, effectiveness, and value. The issues relating to e-waste management include those emanating from managerial, environmental, labor, and health perspectives. This article aims to present an overview of the key considerations related to the e-waste dilemma, and also proposes issues, challenges, and solutions to addressing the problem. A focus on the factors and variables affecting e-waste management, together with a global framework of e-waste management methods and strategies, are then followed by recommendations and viable areas for future research.