Circular economy, focused on reusing, recycling and repurposing materials, can create jobs and build a sustainable future
Studies by the United Nations show that roughly 2.01 billion tonnes of waste is produced globally every year. India is no exception to this major waste crisis.
India is the third largest producer of e-waste in the world. In 2023-24, the country generated 1.751 million metric tonnes of e-waste, which is an alarming 72.54 per cent increase from 2019-20. The question we are now faced with is - how do we fix this? The answer lies in circular economy, a smarter way of thinking about waste.
Rather than the ongoing ‘use and throw’ approach that we practise today, circular economy places its focus on ‘reusing, recycling and repurposing’ materials as far as possible. Opting for a circular economy can have manifold benefits for us, including reduced pollution, new employment opportunities, and a healthier, sustainable future.
The Dire Need for a Circular Economy
In our dynamic digital world, consumers are purchasing gadgets at an unprecedented rate. But what happens when these devices become obsolete or non-functional? A significant portion of this electronic waste is dumped into landfills or gets thrown into informal recycling sectors that employ unsafe methods of disposal. This leaches toxic substances into the soil and water, causing considerable ecological and health risks. Shockingly, only 22 per cent of India’s e-waste is properly recycled, while the rest contributes to pollution and resource wastage.
India has a chance to turn its waste crisis into an opportunity by adopting a circular economy. By concentrating on the repair, refurbishment, and recycling of electronic items, we can significantly decrease carbon emissions, conserve valuable resources, and even stimulate the economy. There are endless possibilities for businesses in recycling and remanufacturing, while even greater possibilities can open in job creation for waste management and eco-friendly innovations.
Involving the Younger Generation
While global solutions are wider in scope, there is an opportunity to implement real change at a much more local level by involving the younger generation in this battle against e-waste.
The ability of youth to challenge the status quo and think creatively is key to turning the circular economy from concept to reality. By including youth in conversations about circular economy, we can encourage them to view waste as not an end goal, but a resource that can open up other avenues, if explored.
Government’s Role in Promoting Circularity
The Indian government has already taken several measures to mitigate the waste issue and to encourage circular practices. Policies such as the National Resource Efficiency Policy (NREP) seek to minimise wastes while maximising resources. The well-known Swachh Bharat Mission has not only improved sanitation but also highlighted the importance of responsible waste disposal.
Other initiatives such as the Atal Innovation Mission aims at getting the younger generation to think innovatively about meeting the sustainability challenge. Additionally, the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) campaign launched by Prime Minister Modi at COP 26 in 2021 endeavours to sensitise different sections to inculcate green habits in their daily lives. With the incorporation of this policy along with regional effort, we can lay a stronger base for the circular economy in India.
Moving towards a circular economy is about securing India’s future. However, most importantly, it’s about cultivating a shift in mindset; from a culture of waste to a culture of value.
(The writer is founder & Director, Bajaj Foundation; views are personal)
