E-waste management and its effects on the environment and human health

Highlights: • Almost 82.6% of global E-waste is recycled informally in unorganized sectors. • Toxic effect of E-waste to human health and environment is studied comprehensively. • A sustainable approach has been articulated for effective management of E-wastes. • Formalizing informal sector is crucial for propelling effective E-waste management. Challenges in managing electronic waste (E-waste) arise from a lack of technical skills, poor infrastructure, inadequate financial support, and inactive community engagement. This study provides a systematic review of efforts to overcome these challenges in the context of inappropriate recycling protocols of E-waste and their toxic effects on human health and the environment. An inventory of end-of-life electronic products, which can be established through the creation of an environment friendly regulatory regime for recycling, is essential for the proper control of E-waste. An approach has been articulated to help implement effective management of E-waste in both developed and developing countries. Enforcement of systematic management measures for E-waste in developing countries coupled with best practices is expected to minimize adverse impacts while helping maintain a sustainable and resilient environment.