Environmental Issues and Management Strategies for Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment

ABSTRACT

Issues surrounding the impact and management of discarded or waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) have received increasing attention in recent years. This attention stems from the growing quantity and diversity of electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) used by modern society, the increasingly rapid turnover of EEE with the accompanying burden on the waste stream, and the occurrence of toxic chemicals in many EEE components that can pose a risk to human and environmental health if improperly managed. In addition, public awareness of the WEEE or “e-waste” dilemma has grown in light of popular press features on events such as the transition to digital television and the exportation of WEEE from the United States and other developed countries to Africa, China, and India, where WEEE has often not been managed in a safe manner (e.g., processed with proper safety precautions, disposed of in a sanitary landfill, combusted with proper air quality procedures). This paper critically reviews current published information on the subject of WEEE. The definition, magnitude, and characteristics of this waste stream are summarized, including a detailed review of the chemicals of concern associated with different components and how this has changed and continues to evolve over time. Current and evolving management practices are described (e.g., reuse, recycling, incineration, landfilling). This review discusses the role of regulation and policies developed by governments, institutions, and product manufacturers and how these initiatives are shaping current and future management practices.

IMPLICATIONS

WEEE poses a challenge to environmental professionals. Recent investigations document that when managed improperly, WEEE poses an environmental and human health risk. Properly designed and operated WEEE recovery and recycling programs—implemented in many parts of the world as a result of regulatory action, producer initiative, and consumer demand—provide a safer and more sustainable WEEE management strategy. Recent research priorities have focused on quantifying environmental risks and developing efficient recovery technologies and strategies. Continued emphasis on such research is warranted for the foreseeable future.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The author thankfully recognizes the assistance of Kelly Hodoval, Hwidong Kim, Shrawan Singh, and Yu Wang in the development of this review. The historical research support of the Hinkley Center for Solid and Hazardous Waste, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and EPA are recognized.