Suggest scheme for implementation of E-waste rules: NGT

New Delh: The National Green Tribunal has directed the Centre and state governments to recommend a scheme for effective implementation of E-Waste Rules for environment-friendly disposal of e-waste.

A bench headed by Justice U D Salvi expressed concern over the large amount of electronics waste piling up in each state which pose serious health and pollution problems.

"Potential of e-waste to cause environmental damage is not disputed by parties and they are at consensus on the premise that the faithful implementation of the e-Waste Rules, 2011 is necessary to check environmental pollution caused by the e-waste remaining unattended or not handled or treated as per the E-Waste Rules, 2011.

"All states, Union Territories as well as MoEF and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) are, therefore, directed to suggest the scheme for effectively implementing the said rules," the bench said while posting the matter for next hearing on November 6.

During the proceedings, the counsel appearing on behalf of CPCB told the bench that there were guidelines issued to the states for implementation of E-Waste Rules, 2011, however in case of the conflict between the guidelines and Rules, the Rules would prevail.

The Tribunal was hearing a plea by NGO Toxics Link which claimed that tonnes of second-hand or used goods are being dumped in India leading to a pile-up of e-waste.

The NGO had sought a direction to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to submit a report on the exact quantity of goods being dumped in the country under the Export Import Policy of India (2013-2014).

Electronic waste is discarded electrical or electronic devices which includes discarded computers, office electronic equipment, entertainment device electronics, mobile phones, television sets and refrigerators.

E-waste Rules, 2011 apply to every producer, consumer or bulk consumer involved in the manufacture, sale, purchase and processing of electrical and electronic equipment or components.