Nellore: Neglecting electronic waste (e-waste) in homes and workplaces can lead to serious health issues and environmental degradation, warned district revenue officer (DRO) J. Uday Bhaskar Rao. Speaking at a meeting held on Monday at the Tikkana Auditorium in the Nellore collectorate, the DRO, along with RWSS officer Venkata Ramana, convened officials from various departments to raise awareness on e-waste management.The DRO highlighted that e-waste contains highly hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic. These can enter the human body through inhalation, ingestion or skin contact, leading to severe health complications.He emphasised that with the rapid advancement of technology, the growing volume of discarded electronic devices—such as mobile phones, laptops, televisions and batteries—has become a major threat to the environment.“If not properly disposed of, millions of defunct electronic devices contribute significantly to pollution. Managing e-waste through scientific methods is crucial, not only to reduce harmful environmental effects but also to recover valuable resources,” he stated.The DRO urged the public to ensure that outdated electronic items are sent to authorised e-waste recycling centres for safe processing and reuse.He warned that improper disposal leads to soil, water and air pollution. Hazardous substances from e-waste can seep into underground water sources, contaminating drinking and irrigation water.He concluded by stressing that the impact of e-waste depends entirely on how it is handled. Improper management not only causes environmental and health hazards but also leads to significant economic loss. Responsible e-waste management is vital for a sustainable future.
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