Indian unorganised sector recycles 95 % e-waste: Dr. SK Sahu

CSIR-NML organises 9th Scientists & Science Teachers Conclave

Jamshedpur, Sep 25: CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML), Jamshedpur organised 9^th Scientists & Science Teachers Conclave (SSTC) on 24^th September 2021 on a virtual platform. The program was based on the theme ‘E-waste’ and the main objective of this online event was to create innovative content for teaching science to school students and also to encourage students to learn science with fun and creativity.

Dr. Mita Tarafder, Chief Scientist of CSIR-NML in her welcome address talked about the idea behind arranging this online event saying that it is a new concept of innovative learning. She requested the teachers to come forward and use this platform to share their experiences of innovative teaching.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. SK Sahu, Principal Scientist, MER Division of CSIR-NML on the topic “E-waste Recycling in India”.  As stated by him, e-waste disposal is an issue with the developing countries like India due to lack of knowledge for proper disposal of e-waste and also due to absence of law to deal with e-waste management. He said that in India, 90-95% of the e-waste generated is recycled by unorganized sector who recover only the precious metals like gold, silver, aluminium, copper etc. and dispose of the rest in landfill which in turn gives rise to environmental pollution and various health issues. He elaborately discussed the major concerns associated with e-waste disposal and the possible ways to tackle the issues.

This was followed by a demonstration on collection of e-waste from laptop and computer by the team members of CSIR Virtual Lab Team. Demonstrations were done jointly by Dr. Aniket Dutt and Deepak Dhibar of KRIT Division, CSIR-NML.

The virtual event received good response from the participants. The program was attended by more than 40 teachers, students, scientists and professionals. Pragati Jha of KRIT Division, CSIR-NML proposed the vote of thanks and appreciated all organisers for conducting the event successfully.