The Future of E-Waste and Resource Recycling - January 2003
The problem of electronic and electrical waste is becoming more serious worldwide, and countries are taking action.
The UN Basel Convention Secretariat, in cooperation with 10 major cell phone manufacturers, has developed a framework for the collection and disposal of used cell phones.
By doing so, it aims to promote the proper disposal of e-waste and the effective use of resources.
Particular emphasis is being placed on the recovery of rare metals contained in cell phones, and cooperation among companies is being strengthened.
On the other hand, the U.S. continues to export used electronic equipment to developing countries without having ratified the Basel Convention.
Although most used equipment is repaired and reused, concerns have been raised about the leakage of hazardous substances into the environment due to improper disposal processes.
The EU has introduced the WEEE Directive (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive), which requires manufacturers to take responsibility for the collection and recycling of their products.
The mandatory recycling of electronic equipment requires a shift to a structure that facilitates recycling, starting at the design stage.
In addition, Asian countries have formulated their own recycling policies.
In Japan, manufacturers and local governments cooperate in the proper disposal of used electronic equipment based on the Home Appliance Recycling Law.
China has also strengthened its e-waste management system with the aim of fostering a recycling industry.
As international rules and technological innovations continue to be developed, there is a need to create a resource-recycling society while reducing the environmental burden.
Related information:.
- International Trends on Transboundary Movements of E-Waste under the Basel Convention
- EU WEEE Directive and its domestic legislation status
- Current Status and Issues of Resource Recycling Policies in Japan
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