Kar Parivartan LLP – E-Waste EPR- Plastic EPR – Battery EPR

Detailing EPR – Kar Parivartan

Kar Parivartan Team — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 08:41:26 +0000

Detailing EPR – Kar Parivartan

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been introduced to promote recycling and limit waste generation. EPR aims to achieve this by placing responsibility on the Producer, Importer, and Brand Owner (PIBOs) to recycle their products when they reach their end of life. Recycling is required to recover resources vital to the economy, playing a crucial role in boosting sustainability, enabling a move toward a Circular Economy instead of a linear, Take-Make-Dispose economy.

At Kar Parivartan, we have taken the initiative towards circularity and sustainability by streamlining EPR Compliance through Environment-Friendly EPR solutions. Circular Economy revolves around extracting value from waste. Circularity refers to the channelization of resources reclaimed from waste back into the economy for production. This model reduces pressure on the existing resources, effectively reducing the mining of virgin precious metals. Besides enhancing sustainability, the Circular Economy model also stimulates numerous economic benefits.

1. Traceability: We enable tracking of source materials to foster sustainable waste collection practices across recyclers. A meticulous approach towards documentation of the sourcing and processing to ensure that authenticity and sustainability are upheld.

2. Audit: Compliance EPR Management: Regular recycler audits are conducted to uphold high standards. A dynamic approach towards improvement and Compliance Management ensures the best sustainability practices in recycling.

EPR Compliance Management

Message from the Founder

Kar Parivartan Team — Sat, 20 Apr 2024 08:27:25 +0000

Message from the Founder

Mr. Ajay Sohanvi

Industrial revolution in electronics manufacturing is not too far in India, as we account for more than 3% of the global production. Rapid growth in Electronics consumption due to evolving technology, increasing population, higher per capita income, and urbanization will reduce the usable life of electronics leading to more and more electronics turning into e-waste. India is the 3rd Largest generator of eWaste in the world, followed by US and China. More than 62 million MT of electronics was disposed of in 2022, worth $92 Billion metals. India recorded 1.6 million MT in 2022 of e-waste, which may be much higher than recorded due to the dominance of the informal sector in e-waste collection and recycling. The formal recycling rate is much lower than projected for e-waste collected and recycled.

Kar Parivartan was formed in 2020 influenced by this gap in the circular economy of eWaste in India, leading to an opportunity to bridge the gap and enable the circularity of waste to value in eWaste.

The vision behind Kar Parivartan is to shift from a linear economy to a circular economy by enabling the ecosystem of Waste Collectors, Recyclers, and manufacturers.

Like e-waste, other waste categories are challenging in the current ecosystem to deliver circularity impacting our Economy, Environment, Social well-being, and Governance framework. Expanding to our capabilities and likewise opportunities, we are forging into Battery, Plastic, Tyre, and Hazardous waste to build the ecosystem connecting recyclers with producers or bulk waste generators outlining our capabilities of supply chain management and reverse logistics. By expanding our scope, we aim to further reduce the waste reaching the landfills and do our part in the movement toward sustainability.

Reverse Logistics

Reverse logistics refers to the supply chain process of returning electronic products from end consumers back through the supply chain by sourcing them from consumers, retailers or manufacturers. In the context of EPR, Reverse Logistics deals with the management of products that have come to their end-of-life for recycling, and refurbishing.

Reverse Logistics a key service offered by PROs to facilitate the movement of waste from the source to recycling centers. Kar Parivartan brings to you a network of logistic partners with customized solutions based on type, category and volume of waste, including the collection, transportation and management of enroute compliances, effectively removing your burden of creating and coordinating a Reverse Logistics network while lowering costs.

Recycling

Kar Parivartan aims to engage in the best recycling solutions to promote Sustainability and a Circular economy. To achieve our vision, our teams extensively audit the recycling centers for their quality and compliance with the best sustainability practices. We hold our network of recyclers to a high standard to create an environment of trust and ethical work practices.

Why Karparivartan

Our services encompass all aspects of EPR compliance and recycling that include but are not limited to EPR, Reverse Logistics, Recycling & Refurbishing. These services range from legal compliance to sustainability strategies which can be tailor-made to suit the needs of your organization perfectly.

EPR services we offer:

EPR Credits Service
EPR Compliance Management

Kar Parivartan also boasts a trusted network of recyclers for Electronic, Battery, Tyre, Plastic, and Hazardous waste based in 28 states of India. With our plethora of services and a wide network of recyclers, we bring to the table a vast range of waste management solutions.

Visit us : www.Karparivartan.com

Write us at : Info@gcclients.in

Carbon Emissions Avoided through Recycling

Over 3 years, Kar Parivartan has recycled 29,700 Metric tonnes of waste. For every ton of waste recycled, approximately 1.44 tonnes of CO2 emissions are avoided. For 29,700 metric tonnes of e-waste recycled, Kar Parivartan has avoided the emission of 42,768 metric tonnes of CO2, creating a positive impact on the ecosystem.

Sustainable Solutions: Karparivartan’s Role in E-Waste Management and Awareness

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:25 +0000

The Green Credit Programme: Draft Policy on A Market-Based Mechanism for Sustainable Development

In an era where electronic devices become obsolete at a rapid pace, the need for responsible e-waste management has never been more critical. Karparivartan, a trusted name in the industry, stands as a beacon of sustainable solutions in the world of E-Waste management.

Asset Liquidation: Unlocking Value from Disused Electronics
Karparivartan specializes in asset liquidation, helping organizations maximize their returns on old and unused electronic assets. We understand that what may seem like obsolete equipment to one might hold value for another. By facilitating the sale of surplus electronics, we promote resource efficiency and reduce electronic waste.

EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility): Shifting the Accountability
Our commitment to environmental stewardship goes hand in hand with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). We work closely with manufacturers to ensure they take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, from production to disposal.We’re actively reducing the environmental impact of electronics.

Reverse Logistics: Efficient Collection and Transportation
Karparivartan streamlines the complex process of collecting and transporting e-waste. Our reverse logistics system ensures that e-waste is handled safely and efficiently, reducing the chances of improper disposal. We believe that every step in the e-waste journey should be sustainable.

Proactive Education: Spreading E-Waste Awareness
We understand that addressing the e-waste problem isn’t just about managing it but also creating awareness. Karparivartan engages in proactive educational initiatives to inform individuals and businesses about the hazards of improper e-waste disposal. Our goal is to empower everyone to make responsible choices.

Beyond E-Waste: Battery and Plastic Waste EPR
Karparivartan extends its expertise beyond electronic waste to include Battery Waste and Plastic Waste EPR. By expanding our services, we continue to contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.

In a world grappling with the consequences of e-waste mismanagement, Karparivartan is leading the charge towards a sustainable future. Our comprehensive services, commitment to EPR, efficient logistics, and educational outreach are all part of our holistic approach to managing electronic, battery, and plastic waste responsibly.

Join us in our mission to transform the way we handle e-waste and build a greener, more sustainable world.

Contact Karparivartan today and be a part of the change!

"Nature is not only our home; it's our greatest teacher, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity and the interconnectedness of all life."

e-Waste, a Global problem

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:23 +0000

Immersing in Nature's Symphony

e-WASTE

When electronic products comes to the end of their life, they become waste. E-waste, or electronic waste, encompasses electrical and electronic equipment that’s outdated, unwanted, or broken. That means everything from smartphones to end-of-life refrigerators. Basically, anything that runs on electricity that you’ve decided to get rid of. Globally, the term associated with eWaste is also known as WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment). E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams on the planet.

Globally, we only recycle 10% of our e-waste, and remaining 90% we don’t recycle, it ends up getting landfilled, incinerated, or illegally traded.

Global Overview

The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 (www.globalewaste.org), a record 53.6 million metric tonnes (Mt) of electronic waste was generated worldwide in 2019, up 21 per cent in just five years, 7.3 kg per capita, it is projected to grow to 74.7 Mt by 2030, almost a doubling of e-waste in just 16 years. This makes e-waste the world’s fastest-growing domestic waste stream, fuelled mainly by higher consumption rates of electric and electronic equipment, short life cycles, and few options for repair. Only 17.4 per cent of 2019’s e-waste was collected and recycled.

According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2020, nearly 78 countries adopted the e-waste policy, regulation, and legislation. Even though most developing countries adopted policy, regulation, and legislation to regulate e-waste, they still lack proper systematic e-waste collection and management methods. As per the report, Asia generated the greatest volume of e-waste in 2019 — some 24.9 Mt, followed by the Americas (13.1 Mt) and Europe (12 Mt), while Africa and Oceania generated 2.9 Mt and 0.7 Mt respectively. For perspective, last year’s e-waste weighed substantially more than all the adults in Europe, or as much as 350 cruise ships the size of the Queen Mary 2, enough to form a line 125 km long.

53.6mt global e-waste consists of precious raw materials such as aluminum, copper, iron, gold worth the value of $57 billion USD. Only $10 billion USD value of raw materials (4 Mt) retrieved from properly documented recycled e-waste amounts to only 17.4% (9.3 Mt) of global e-waste. The remaining 82.6% (44.3 Mt) of e-waste is dumped into the environment without proper documentation and recycling management. Therefore, recycling companies play a vital role in processing and managing undocumented e-waste. Proper management of e-waste not only gives enough returns but also protects the environment and health of the people.

Statistics show that Asia generated the highest quantity of e-waste.

E-Waste management rules in India

Dominance of informal sector, health & environment pushed to lead and draft eWaste management rules in India. It is important to know that India is the only country in Southern Asia with e-waste legislation since 2011. The Government has also notified E-waste (Management) Rules, 2016 , to ensure E-waste is managed effectively. A manufacturer, dealer, Refurbisher and Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) were also brought under the ambit of these Rules. PRO is a professional organization authorized or financed collectively or individually by producers, which can take the responsibility for collection and channelization of e-waste. Furthermore, the applicability of the Rules was expanded to cover components, consumables, parts and spares of EEE in addition to the equipment’s covered under the Rules.

Few of the key objectives of these rules include:

Extended responsibility to producers to manage a system of E-waste collection and channelization through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Authorization.

To promote and encourage establishment of an efficient e-waste collection mechanism
Promote environmentally safe & sound recycling by channelizing E-waste to authorized dismantlers and recyclers of E-waste
To minimize illegal recycling/recovery operations
Reduce Hazardous substances in Electrical and Electronic components

Hence, in view of the potential hazards that E-waste could cause to nature, as well as the opportunity to recycle precious metals (thus reducing exploitation of nature), it is of paramount importance that the countries world over (including India) ramp up their infrastructure and streamlines the process for better tracking & recycling of e-waste.

In order to successfully handle e-waste, coordination with other stakeholders from industry, government, NGOs, international organizations, and academia is required. Some of the principles to develop effective e-waste management systems are to set a clear legal framework for e-waste collection and recycling, to enable the producers to finance the collection and recycling of e-waste under EPR, to strengthen the monitory and compliance mechanisms, to provide an incentive for recyclers to enhance in systematic and technological advancements. To create awareness among consumers about the environmental benefits of recycling, to create awareness among the workers about the health hazards of working in recycle management centres, and to provide them with frequent medical support.

How Covid-19, will impact in future growth of eWaste?

Technology investment in beginning of the pandemic will add to growing concern of e-waste. The transition of remote working or work from home spurred on a wave of new device purchases. Organisations invested in new equipment to enable their employees to work from home. Schools, institutions and students invested on technology and devices to facilitate distance learning. In fact, demand of sourcing new technology became one of the top priorities to keep people safe, distanced and protected.

Why is e-waste so bad?

E-waste contains a various chemicals that are harmful to people and our environment, like: mercury, lead, beryllium, brominated flame retardants, and cadmium, i.e. and when this eWaste is mishandled during disposal, these chemicals end up in our soil, water, and air contaminating are natural resources, health and environment. Some of the key challenges associated with eWaste, if it goes to landfill are:

1. WEEE can cause fire.

2. Cause pollution and raise health problems.

3. Rare elements, are lost with resource recovery.

4. Limitation to Regulatory compliance.

What are the reasons of growing eWaste problem?

The main reasons for growing eWaste problems are :

1. Awareness : Lack of knowledge and consumer behaviour among consumers on eWaste impact

2. Policy Penetration: While there are efforts in policy formulation, but associated challenges on implementation add to the problem.

3. Gaps in Capacity and Capability: Limitation in industrial infrastructure to recycle eWaste, while there are efforts to enhance the capability to meet the growing demand.

4. Collection and Channalisation of eWaste : Limitation in availability of appropriate collection channel, against the informal sector capability.

5. Incentives & Promotions : Limitations in clarity of incentives to industry and consumers in the development of ethical ewaste management.

What can we do about it?

Be Aware, and by being more mindful about where your e-waste ends up, you can limit how much you produce and the impact it has on the environment. The concept of 4R, needs to be considered to help, save our planet and our wellbeing. The 3R, concept includes Reduce, Reuse, Repair and Recycle.

Reduce: The easiest way to solve the e-waste crisis is to produce less e-waste. Be wise, when you buy EE equipment’s and a right decision between necessity and luxury to limit the acquisition. Also, by taking care of your electronics you can ensure that they last longer to save money and our environment too.

Reuse: If, your EE equipment is working fine but may not be in use then consider regifting, selling, or donating it. Your waste, may be an asset for someone else.

Repair: We generally, throw out and replace broken electronics instead of getting them repaired. The opportunity of repair, may be with you or with someone else. This may help limiting the eWaste further.

Recycle: Lastly, you can always recycle your e-waste—just make sure you’re doing it correctly and through ethical channel to help save our environment. The eWaste should not be given to informal sector, who lacks capability and capacity in the recycling of eWaste.

Benefits of Recycling

1. Protects the environment – Recycling e-waste can keep a range of harmful materials out of the environment.

2. Extracted material can be reused in manufacturing new EE equipment’s delivering circular economy.

3. Saves, landfill Space – Reduced impact on Urban Local Bodies to manage the landfills.

4. Saves, natural resources – natural resources such as metals aren’t wasted and the energy and cost required to manufacture and mine them are also saved.

5. Increased Employment – By recycling e-waste, several people get a job. More jobs mean financial stability for our people.

6. Increased Affordability – Reduced cost of manufacturing due to recycled material will increase affordability.

7. Promotes mindful consumer approach based on 4R principle.

To know more on eWaste and how to manage effectively, do write to us on: info@karparivartan.com.

Contribution of Informal Sector in Waste Collection in India?

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:21 +0000

Contribution of Informal Sector in Waste Collection in India?

The informal sector plays a significant role in waste collection in India, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. Here are some key contributions of the informal sector in waste collection:

Waste Collection at the Household Level: Informal waste workers, commonly known as waste pickers, often collect waste directly from households. They move door-to-door, collecting waste materials such as recyclables, organic waste, and other non-recyclable items. This service ensures that waste is collected at the source, preventing its accumulation in public spaces and reducing the burden on municipal waste management systems.
Segregation of Waste: Informal waste workers are skilled at segregating waste materials. They categorize and separate recyclable items like paper, plastic, glass, and metal from non-recyclable waste. This segregation process improves the quality of recyclables and facilitates their subsequent processing and recycling.
Collection from Informal Settlements: Informal waste workers play a crucial role in collecting waste from informal settlements, slums, and low-income areas where municipal waste collection services may be limited or absent. They provide a vital waste management service to these communities, helping to keep their surroundings clean and minimizing the health and environmental hazards associated with improper waste disposal.
Recycling and Resource Recovery: Informal waste workers are actively involved in the recycling and resource recovery process. They collect recyclable materials and sell them to scrap dealers, recycling units, or middlemen. By salvaging and recovering valuable resources from the waste stream, they contribute to the circular economy, reduce the demand for raw materials, and minimize environmental degradation.
Job Creation and Livelihoods: The informal waste sector provides employment and livelihood opportunities for a significant number of people, particularly those from marginalized communities. Waste pickers and other informal waste workers earn their livelihood by collecting and selling recyclable materials. This sector serves as an important source of income for individuals and families, contributing to poverty reduction and economic empowerment.
Environmental Impact: The contribution of the informal waste sector in waste collection has positive environmental implications. By diverting recyclable materials from landfills, waste pickers help reduce the volume of waste sent for disposal, thereby reducing the environmental impact associated with landfilling. Additionally, their involvement in recycling helps conserve natural resources, save energy, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Public Health and Hygiene: Informal waste workers contribute to public health and hygiene by collecting waste from households and public spaces. Their efforts help prevent the accumulation of waste, which can attract pests, spread diseases, and cause environmental pollution. By keeping the surroundings clean, they contribute to a healthier living environment for communities.
Cost-effectiveness for Municipalities: The involvement of the informal waste sector in waste collection offers cost advantages for municipalities. Municipalities can leverage the services of waste pickers and informal waste workers to complement their waste management efforts. This collaboration reduces the burden on municipal resources, as the informal sector helps collect and manage waste at a lower cost.

Recognizing the contributions of the informal waste sector, many municipalities and organisations are working towards integrating waste pickers and other informal waste workers into formal waste management systems. Efforts are being made to provide them with better working conditions, training, social security, and access to fair wages, aiming to improve their livelihoods and ensure their inclusion in sustainable waste management practices.

The Green Credit Programme: Draft Policy on A Market-Based Mechanism for Sustainable Development

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:16 +0000

The Green Credit Programme: Draft Policy on A Market-Based Mechanism for Sustainable Development

The Green Credit Programme, introduced by the Government of India as part of the LiFE movement (Lifestyle for Environment), aims to combat climate change and promote sustainable living based on conservation and moderation. This innovative market-based mechanism incentivizes individuals, communities, and organizations to adopt environment-friendly practices through the issuance and trading of Green Credits. The programme covers a wide range of sectors and entities, encouraging voluntary environmental actions and facilitating the convergence of sustainability efforts across various domains. This article explores the objectives, implementation, and potential impact of the Green Credit Programme in driving sustainable development.

OBJECTIVES OF THE GREEN CREDIT PROGRAMME:

The main objectives of the Green Credit Programme are as follows:

Creating a market-based mechanism: The programme establishes a market platform for providing incentives in the form of Green Credits to various stakeholders, including individuals, Farmer Producer Organisations, cooperatives, forestry enterprises, sustainable agriculture enterprises, Urban and Rural Local Bodies, private sectors, industries, and organizations. This mechanism fosters a culture of positive environmental action and encourages sustainable lifestyles.

Fostering a mass movement: The Green Credit Programme aims to create a mass movement around environment-positive actions, aligning with the vision of “Mission LiFE.” By incentivizing pro-planet behaviour, the programme seeks to mobilize individuals, communities, and entities towards sustainable practices and a greener future.

Implementation Mechanism: The implementation of the Green Credit Programme follows a phased and iterative approach. Initially, two to three activities from selected sectors, such as tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, Ecomark certification, and sustainable building and infrastructure, will be considered for designing and piloting the programme. The programme will subsequently expand to include more activities and sectors as approved by the Central Government.

The generation of Green Credits under the programme will be governed by specific thresholds, benchmarks, and equivalence criteria. Each activity will be evaluated based on its environmental impact and resource requirements to determine the allocation of Green Credits. Digital processes will be established for self-assessment, registration, issuance, and monitoring of Green Credits, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the programme’s operations.

ROLE OF KEY ENTITIES:

Several key entities play vital roles in the successful implementation of the Green Credit Programme:

Green Credit Programme Administrator: The Administrator, entrusted to the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, oversees the management, monitoring, and operation of the programme. They are responsible for developing guidelines, methodologies, and standards, as well as accrediting entities involved in the programme, such as the Green Credit Registry, certifiers, verifiers, and trading service providers.

Technical Committees: Technical committees are constituted for each activity under the programme. Comprising representatives from concerned Ministries/Departments and subject matter experts, these committees develop methodologies, standards, and processes for activity registration, issuance of Green Credits, and measurement, reporting, and verification mechanisms.

Green Credit Registry: The Green Credit Registry, established and maintained by the Administrator or its accredited agency, serves as a centralized electronic database for the issuance, holding, transfer, and acquisition of Green Credits. It ensures accurate accounting of transactions, maintains data security, and complies with prescribed technical standards.

Accredited Green Credit Verifiers: These entities, accredited by the Administrator, conduct independent verification of Green Credit activities and submit reports for the grant of Green Credits. They play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and credibility of the programme.

BENEFITS AND IMPACT:

The Green Credit Programme offers numerous benefits and can have a significant impact on sustainable development:

Incentivizing sustainable practices: By providing tangible incentives in the form of Green Credits, the programme motivates individuals, communities, and organizations to adopt sustainable practices. This can lead to a widespread behavioral shift towards eco-friendly actions and choices.

Environmental conservation: The programme targets critical sectors, such as afforestation, water conservation, and waste management, which directly contribute to environmental conservation. Increased participation in these activities can help mitigate climate change, conserve biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem services.

Economic opportunities: The Green Credit Programme creates economic opportunities by encouraging the development of sustainable enterprises and green technologies. This can stimulate job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation in sectors aligned with sustainable development goals.

Knowledge sharing and capacity building: The programme emphasizes the establishment of a Knowledge and Data Platform, facilitating the sharing of best practices, research findings, and technical knowledge. It also supports capacity building efforts, enabling stakeholders to enhance their understanding of sustainable practices and their implementation.

Collaborative convergence: The programme promotes convergence among various stakeholders, including government bodies, private enterprises, and civil society organizations. This collaboration fosters synergies, knowledge exchange, and collective action towards achieving environmental sustainability.

CONCLUSION:

The Green Credit Programme in India is a pioneering initiative that harnesses market forces to incentivize sustainable practices and nurture a culture of environmental consciousness. By providing Green Credits, the programme encourages individuals and organizations to actively engage in environment-positive actions, thereby contributing to the nation’s sustainable development goals. Through the convergence of diverse sectors and entities, the programme has the potential to create a transformative impact on India’s environmental landscape. As the programme expands and evolves, it is crucial to monitor its effectiveness, ensure accountability, and continually refine its methodologies to maximize its positive outcomes for the environment and society at large.

Immersing in Nature's Symphony

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"Nature is not only our home; it's our greatest teacher, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity and the interconnectedness of all life."

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What is E-Waste and its Impact on Indian Economy?

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:12 +0000

E-Waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electronic devices and equipment that have reached the end of their useful life. It includes items such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, printers, and other electronic appliances. The improper management of eWaste can have significant impacts on the Indian economy. Here’s an overview:

Environmental Impact: Improper disposal and handling of eWaste can lead to environmental pollution. Many electronic devices contain hazardous substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. When eWaste is improperly disposed of or incinerated, these harmful substances can contaminate soil, water bodies, and the air, posing risks to human health and the environment.
Health Risks: The informal recycling and dismantling of eWaste often involve unsafe practices. People, including workers and local communities, who are exposed to eWaste without proper protective measures, may suffer from health issues. Exposure to hazardous chemicals and heavy metals can cause respiratory problems, neurological disorders, skin ailments, and other health complications.
Resource Depletion: Electronics contain valuable resources like precious metals, rare earth elements, and other recyclable materials. When E-Waste is not properly managed, these resources are lost and go to waste. By adopting proper E-Waste recycling practices, valuable resources can be recovered, recycled, and reintroduced into the economy, reducing the dependency on virgin raw materials and contributing to resource conservation.
Economic Loss: India is one of the largest consumers of electronic products, leading to a significant amount of eWaste generation. However, the lack of proper eWaste management infrastructure results in a missed economic opportunity. If eWaste is managed effectively, it can contribute to job creation and revenue generation through activities such as eWaste collection, sorting, recycling, and the refurbishment of reusable electronics.
Informal Sector Challenges: The informal sector plays a significant role in eWaste management in India. However, it faces challenges such as low income, unsafe working conditions, and lack of access to proper technologies for safe recycling. The formalization and integration of the informal sector into the eWaste management value chain can bring socio-economic benefits by providing better livelihood opportunities and improving occupational health and safety standards.
Circular Economy Potential: Proper E-Waste management aligns with the principles of a circular economy. It enables the recovery and recycling of valuable materials, promoting a more sustainable and resource-efficient approach to electronics production. By implementing effective E-Waste recycling practices, India can move towards a circular economy model, reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing environmental impacts.

To address these challenges and harness the potential benefits, the Indian government has implemented the e-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016 and 2022, to regulate the proper handling, recycling, and disposal of eWaste. Various initiatives, awareness campaigns, and collaborations between government, industry, and civil society organizations are also being undertaken to improve eWaste management practices and promote a sustainable and inclusive eWaste ecosystem in India.

What is EPR and its applicability in India?

Kar Parivartan Team — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:06:09 +0000

EPR stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. It is a policy approach that places the responsibility for managing the environmental impact of a product throughout its lifecycle on the manufacturers, importers, or brand owners. The concept of EPR encourages producers to take responsibility for the proper disposal, recycling, or treatment of their products at the end of their useful life.

In India, the EPR concept was introduced under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, and has been extended to other sectors as well. Here’s how EPR is applicable in India:

E-Waste: The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, make it mandatory for producers or manufacturers of electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) to implement EPR. Producers are required to collect a certain percentage of the eWaste generated from their products and ensure its environmentally sound management through authorized collection centers, recyclers, or take-back systems. They are also responsible for raising public awareness about eWaste and setting up eWaste collection mechanisms.
Plastic Waste: The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and subsequent amendments introduced EPR for plastic waste in India. Plastic waste generators, including brand owners, manufacturers, and importers of certain plastic products, are required to take measures for the collection and channelization of the plastic waste generated from their products for recycling or safe disposal. They may also establish a system for collecting back the plastic waste or collaborate with authorized waste collection agencies.
Batteries: The Battery Waste Management Rules, 2020, incorporate EPR principles for battery waste management. Producers, including battery manufacturers, importers, and dealers, are responsible for collecting and recycling a certain percentage of used batteries. They are required to set up collection systems, facilitate take-back mechanisms, and ensure proper disposal or recycling of used batteries.
Packaging Waste: The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, also include provisions for EPR in packaging waste. Producers, brand owners, and importers of packaged products are required to adopt measures for collection and channelization of packaging waste. They may establish a system for collecting back packaging waste or collaborate with authorized waste collection agencies.

The applicability of EPR in India varies depending on the specific waste streams and the rules and regulations governing them. The concept aims to shift the responsibility of waste management from local authorities to producers, encouraging them to adopt environmentally friendly product design, materials, and end-of-life management practices.

Implementing EPR helps promote recycling, reduce the burden on landfills, and encourages sustainable consumption and production patterns. It also creates opportunities for the development of a formal recycling sector, job creation, and the efficient use of resources.

It’s important to note that the specific details and implementation guidelines of EPR for different waste streams are defined in the respective waste management rules and may be subject to revisions and updates as per government policies and regulatory changes.

Role of Digital Platform for Waste Collectors in Waste Collection?

Kar Parivartan Team — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 04:14:38 +0000

Providing waste collectors with a digital platform for waste collection can bring several benefits and address various challenges they face. Here are some reasons why waste collectors can benefit from a digital platform:

Efficient Routing and Scheduling: A digital platform can help waste collectors optimise their routes and schedules. By using GPS technology and route optimisation algorithms, they can plan their collection routes more efficiently, reducing travel time and fuel costs. This ensures that waste is collected on time and increases waste collectors’ productivity.
Real-time Communication: Digital platforms enable real-time communication between waste collectors, supervisors, and customers. Waste collectors can receive collection instructions, updates, and notifications through the platform. This enhances coordination, improves response times, and allows for better management of any changes or disruptions in the collection process.
Data Management and Analytics: A digital platform can collect and analyse data related to waste collection, such as the quantity and types of waste collected, collection patterns, and customer preferences. This data can be utilized to optimize waste collection strategies, identify areas with high waste generation, and make data-driven decisions for improving operational efficiency.
Transparency and Accountability: Digital platforms provide transparency in waste collection operations. Customers can track the progress of waste collection, view collection history, and receive notifications about upcoming collections. This transparency enhances accountability and builds trust between waste collectors and customers.
Payment and Financial Management: A digital platform can facilitate digital payment systems for waste collection services. It allows customers to make payments electronically, reducing the reliance on cash transactions. The platform can also help waste collectors manage their finances, track payments received, and generate digital invoices, simplifying the billing process.
Access to Market Opportunities: A digital platform can connect waste collectors with potential customers, such as households, businesses, and industries in need of waste collection services. It opens up opportunities for waste collectors to expand their customer base and secure more contracts, leading to increased business growth and income generation.
Training and Knowledge Sharing: Digital platforms can serve as a hub for training materials, best practices, and knowledge sharing among waste collectors. It can provide access to resources related to waste management techniques, safety guidelines, and regulatory compliance. This improves the skills and knowledge of waste collectors, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively.
Sustainability Initiatives: Digital platforms can support sustainability initiatives by promoting waste reduction, recycling, and responsible waste management practices. They can provide educational resources, tips, and information on sustainable waste practices to both waste collectors and customers, fostering a culture of environmental consciousness.

Overall, a digital platform for waste collection can streamline operations, enhance communication, improve efficiency, and provide valuable tools and resources to waste collectors. It empowers them with technology-driven solutions, helps them overcome challenges, and contributes to the overall advancement of waste management practices.

Benefits of Waste Segregation

Kar Parivartan Team — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 04:16:56 +0000

Waste segregation, or the practice of separating different types of waste materials at the source, offers several benefits for individuals, communities, and the environment. Here are some of the key benefits of waste segregation:

Efficient Recycling: Segregating waste makes recycling more effective and efficient. When waste materials are sorted into separate categories such as paper, plastic, glass, metal, and organic waste, it becomes easier for recycling facilities to process and recycle them. Segregated waste reduces the need for additional sorting and processing, leading to higher recycling rates and less waste ending up in landfills.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Waste segregation plays a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal. By separating recyclable materials from non-recyclable ones, valuable resources can be recovered and reused, reducing the demand for raw materials extraction. It also minimizes the amount of waste that is incinerated or sent to landfills, which can have harmful effects on air, soil, and water quality.
Cost Savings: Proper waste segregation can lead to cost savings for waste management systems. Recycling materials are often cheaper to process and handle than mixed waste. By segregating waste, municipalities and waste management companies can save on transportation, processing, and landfill costs. These savings can be passed on to communities and individuals through reduced waste management fees.
Promotes Circular Economy: Waste segregation supports the concept of a circular economy, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible. By separating waste into different streams, materials can be recycled, repurposed, or transformed into new products. This reduces the dependence on finite resources, conserves energy, and minimizes the environmental impact of production processes.
Health and Hygiene: Segregating waste helps improve public health and hygiene. Proper disposal of hazardous waste, such as chemicals, batteries, or medical waste, prevents their mixing with regular waste and potential harm to human health or the environment. Separating organic waste reduces the production of foul odors and the attraction of pests, promoting cleaner and healthier surroundings.
Education and Awareness: Waste segregation promotes education and awareness about responsible waste management. It encourages individuals and communities to understand the impact of their waste generation and the importance of adopting sustainable practices. By actively participating in waste segregation, people become more conscious of their consumption patterns and are motivated to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Job Creation: Effective waste segregation and recycling systems can create employment opportunities. Recycling facilities, waste management companies, and related industries require a workforce to handle and process segregated waste. This can contribute to local economic development and job creation in the waste management sector.

Waste segregation is an essential step towards sustainable waste management practices. It offers multiple benefits, including increased recycling rates, reduced environmental impact, cost savings, promotion of circular economy principles, improved public health, and community education. By embracing waste segregation, individuals and communities can make a positive contribution towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.