With the support of stakeholders from formal and informal economies, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras is creating a new way to address electronic waste (eWaste).
In the world, 53.6 million tonnes of electronic waste are generated each year. Within 16 years, this amount is expected to double.
Of the eWaste produced worldwide, five percent is recycled properly in the country. Using a model developed at IIT-Madras, researchers estimate the economy could grow by $50 billion.
This project will aim to forge collaborations and influence informal market players, who are primary buyers and sellers of used electronic equipment and components.
This ensures that sufficient numbers are generated for repair, re-use, and recycling for larger players (authorised recyclers) as well as assisting independent repairmen.