"Global E-Waste Crisis: Recycling Struggles to Keep Up"

U.N. agencies warn that e-waste, including discarded electronics, is accumulating globally with low recycling rates and is expected to increase further due to higher consumption and limited repair options. The report reveals that only 22% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022, with the percentage expected to drop to 20% by 2030. Hazardous elements and rare Earth metals in electronic devices pose environmental and health risks. While recycling and collection rates are higher in Europe, they are significantly lower in Asia and Africa. The report emphasizes the need for sound regulations to boost e-waste collection and recycling, while also acknowledging the livelihoods of those who rely on harvesting e-waste in the developing world and the importance of making their work safer.