The UN’s Global E-waste Monitor 2024 reveals a concerning trend: electronic waste is piling up much faster than it’s being recycled. In 2022 alone, 62 million tonnes of e-waste were generated worldwide, but only 22.3% of it was properly collected and recycled. This leaves valuable resources worth $62 billion unaccounted for and increases pollution risks.
The report predicts that if current trends continue, global e-waste generation will reach 82 million tonnes by 2030, a 33% increase from 2022. Challenges like technological advancements, higher consumption, and limited recycling infrastructure contribute to this growing gap.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for action, suggesting that if countries could increase e-waste collection and recycling rates to 60% by 2030, it would bring benefits exceeding costs by over $38 billion, while also reducing health risks and addressing climate change.
Despite the push towards digital progress and renewable energy technologies, the e-waste problem requires immediate attention. Without sound regulations and investment in recycling infrastructure, the world risks squandering valuable metals and facing significant environmental and economic consequences.
