(MENAFN- KNN India)
New Delhi, Jul 15 (KNN) In a startling revelation, India has emerged as the world leader in electronic waste growth, according to a recent United Nations Trade and Development (Unctad) report.
The country witnessed an unprecedented 163 per cent increase in waste from screens, computers, and small IT and telecommunication equipment (SCSIT) between 2010 and 2022, outpacing all other nations globally.
The '2024 Digital Economy Report: Shaping an environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future' highlights India's rapidly expanding digital footprint, with its share in global SCSIT waste generation doubling from 3.1 per cent in 2010 to 6.4 per cent in 2022.
This surge places India at the forefront of a growing environmental crisis, as developing countries in Asia now generate the lion's share of such waste.
China remains the largest contributor, accounting for nearly half of the electronic waste produced in the region. The report underscores the environmental and health hazards associated with improper handling of this waste, particularly in developing nations where informal recycling practices are prevalent.
"The toxic materials in e-waste, including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, pose significant risks to both the environment and human health," warns the report. This raises concerns about the long-term impact of rapid digitalisation on ecosystems and populations in emerging economies.
However, the report also acknowledges positive initiatives in India aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of digital growth. Notable efforts include Amazon India's move towards eliminating single-use plastics in packaging and the rise of eco-friendly last-mile delivery services like Zypp Electric, which uses zero-emission electric scooters.
Looking ahead, the report projects that global 5G subscriptions will exceed 5 billion by 2029, representing nearly 60 per cent of all mobile subscriptions. Northeast Asia, particularly China, is expected to lead this growth, with India following closely behind.
The data center market in Asia and the Pacific is also burgeoning, estimated to reach USD 28 billion by 2024, with China, India, and Singapore at the forefront.
As India continues its rapid digital transformation, balancing technological advancement with environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge. The country's response to this e-waste crisis could set a precedent for other developing nations grappling with similar issues in the digital age.
(KNN Bureau)
MENAFN15072024000155011030ID1108441229
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.