Himachal Pradesh, known as the “Dev Bhoomi” (Land of Gods), is a state in northern India. It is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine natural landscapes in the country, including the Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and sparkling rivers. However, the state is also facing the challenge of e-waste disposal.
E-waste: A Growing Problem
E-waste is the waste generated from electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). It includes a wide range of items such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners. E-waste is a growing problem in India and around the world. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the world generated a record 53.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste in 2019.
Himachal Pradesh’s E-waste Recycling Program
To address the growing problem of e-waste, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) has launched an e-waste recycling program. The program is being implemented in collaboration with private partners. The program will run from October 16 to 21, 2023.
Under the program, the HPSPCB will collect e-waste from Shimla as well as its 11 regional offices across the state. These locations will open kiosks during the period. The authorities have determined the support price for various e-wastes: smartphones at Rs 20, keypad phones at Rs 5, laptops at Rs 120, computers at Rs 150, and other e-wastes at Rs 15.
Importance of E-waste Recycling
E-waste contains a number of hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and beryllium. These substances can pollute the environment and pose a serious threat to human health. E-waste recycling helps to reduce the amount of e-waste that goes to landfills. It also helps to recover valuable resources such as gold, silver, and copper from e-waste.
How to Participate in the E-waste Recycling Program
Residents of Himachal Pradesh can deposit their e-waste at the kiosks, which the HPSPCB’s regional offices across the state will open, to participate in the e-waste recycling program. They can also deposit their e-waste at the mobile van that will be collecting e-waste from various parts of Shimla during the campaign.
Conclusion
The Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board’s e-waste recycling program is a welcome initiative. It will help to reduce the amount of e-waste that goes to landfills and protect the environment. The program urges residents of Himachal Pradesh to participate and responsibly dispose of their electronic waste.