Previous, Contemporary, and Prospects of E-Waste and Its Management

The contemporary world is driven by electronic gadgets without which the survival of mankind is perceived to be incomplete. The uncontrolled dependence of mankind on electronic gadgets has resulted in enhanced production of these gadgets leading to the accumulation of e-waste. Both technological innovation and market expansion have played an important role in electronic waste (e-waste). Owing to hazardous material composition, electronic waste causes environmental problems during the waste management phase if not properly pre-treated. Growing attention is being given to the impacts of these hazardous components from e-waste on the environment. Many countries have drafted legislation to improve the reuse, recycling, and other forms of recovery of such wastes so as to reduce disposal problems. The purpose of this chapter is to present an overview of electronic waste, the current status of management of electronic waste, and recycling technologies for the recovery of metals from end-of-life electronic equipment.