New online platform to promote reuse, repair, recycle e-waste

Source: This post is based on the article “New online platform to promote reuse, repair, recycle e-waste“ published in Down to Earth on 31st August 2021.

What is the News?

IIT Madras is developing an online platform called “e-Source” to tackle electronic wastes (e-waste) by linking stakeholders in the formal and informal economy.

About e-Source Platform:

1. e-Source is an exchange platform that will serve as an online marketplace for waste electrical and electronic equipment. It will also facilitate a formal supply chain between various stakeholders (buyers and sellers).
2. Led by: The initiative is being led by Indo-German Centre for Sustainability (IGCS) which is located at the IIT-Madras campus.
3. Funded by: It is funded by the Government of India’s Department for Science and Technology and the German Academic Exchange Service.

What was the need for this initiative?

1. Currently, the world generates 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste every year. This is expected to double in the next 16 years. Around 85% of this e-waste is being lost globally. 
2. Moreover, E-waste is also a pressing issue in India. It is the world’s third-largest producer of e-waste. But only 5% of its e-waste is recycled properly.

Significance of this platform:

1. The platform uses machine learning for better traceability of e-waste. This will help increase the opportunities for the repair and re-use of e-waste. 
2. The platform will also potentially:
   • Improve livelihoods for youth and women in peri-urban settings by upgrading their skills and improving occupational health and safety,
   • Reduce the flow of toxic materials in waste streams, and 
   • Broaden the market for affordable, second-hand e-devices.