Public Health Interventions to Optimise the Management of Electronic Waste.

Abstract

Electronic waste (e-waste) comprises electronic devices and equipment and has become a cause of global public health concern. The objectives of the current article are to identify the health implications of e-waste, enumerate the current practices and limitations in the disposal of e-waste, and propose public health interventions to overcome these potential challenges. E-waste poses a significant risk to the health of people and the environment. The safe disposal of e-waste has been plagued with multiple challenges, and these must be overcome to safeguard human and environmental health. Acknowledging the huge load of e-waste that has been generated and the hazardous consequences on human and environmental health, there is an immense need to implement a comprehensive package of public health interventions to mitigate the impact. In conclusion, improper handling of e-waste has resulted in harmful health hazards to workers, nearby communities and the environment. The need of the hour is to adopt coordinated global efforts to promote safe and sustainable disposal of e-waste.