|Electronic waste, or e-waste, is growing rapidly given the faster rate of obsolesce of electronic equipment. The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research (EMPA) is studying the controversial issues of e-waste disposal, which implies both risks and opportunities on a global scale. Working together with partners in developing and transition countries, the vision of this e-Waste Guide is to serve as a knowledge base on e-waste recycling in order to reduce its harmful effects without ruining the attractiveness of its business opportunities. |
Facts & Figures: The e-waste pile is growing around the world and statistics show that it runs into millions of tons annually. More and more countries are drafting legislations for the environment-friendly disposal of this waste. Disposal techniques vary widely from country to country because it includes materials which are valuable and recyclable as well as toxic. While modern technologies allow for nearly hazard-free recycling of e-waste, precautions must be taken to control harmful emissions and toxins from causing detrimental impacts on health and the environment.
Case Studies: The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (seco) has commissioned case studies in various countries: India, China and South Africa and more recently is preparing a new series in Latin America (Chile , Colombia) to assess the present e-waste management systems in these countries and to identify potentials for their improvement. The situation in Switzerland is described in details and is to be suplemented by other OECD countries soon.
|Services: The discussion forum is to exchange views and information on e-waste-recycling. Additional information, links to further resources and documents and presentations for download can be found in this section.|