E-Waste Management Among University Students

🔌 What Is E-Waste?

Electronic waste (e-waste) refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices—like computers, mobile phones, TVs, and batteries—that are no longer functional or wanted. These items often contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which pose serious environmental and health risks if not properly handled.

📉 Current Challenges in Nepal

• Lack of Formal Infrastructure: Most e-waste is handled by informal sectors, often through unsafe practices like open burning or landfill dumping.
• Policy Gaps: Nepal’s Solid Waste Management Act (2011) doesn’t specifically address e-waste, leaving a regulatory vacuum.
• Low Public Awareness: Many consumers are unaware of the environmental impact of improper disposal or the potential for recycling.
• Cross-Border Leakage: E-waste often ends up informally exported to India without proper oversight.

🧪 Research at Kathmandu University

Study on e-waste management among KU students is especially timely. According to recent findings:

• Awareness Levels: While many students are aware of e-waste hazards, few know how to recycle or where to dispose of devices safely.
• Disposal Behavior: Common practices include storing unused electronics, selling to scrap dealers, or discarding with general waste.
• Volume Estimates: Residential sources generate 1–3 kg of e-waste annually per person, with spikes during festivals.

🛠️ Emerging Solutions

• Formal Recycling Facilities: Organizations like Doko Recyclers have set up safe dismantling labs and e-waste collection centers across Kathmandu.
• Repair Culture: Initiatives like Tatwa promote refurbishing and resale of electronics to extend their lifecycle.
• Policy Development: The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has proposed a regulatory framework defining roles for producers, recyclers, and consumers.
• Academic Contributions: KU researchers like Subodh Luitel have developed e-waste estimation models and conducted lifecycle assessments to guide national strategy.

🌱 Strategic Recommendations

To strengthen e-waste management in Nepal, consider:

• University-Level Recycling Programs: Pilot collection and awareness campaigns on campus.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with recyclers and tech companies to scale safe disposal.
• Curriculum Integration: Embed e-waste topics into environmental science and engineering courses.
• Digital Awareness Tools: Use social media and blogs to educate youth on responsible e-waste handling.