The effectiveness of electrical and electronic waste recycling and its implications to green building : empirical studies in India and Switzerland

The life of consumer electrical and electronic (E&E) devices is relatively short, and decreasing as a result of rapid changes in equipment features and capabilities. This creates a large waste stream of obsolete E&E equipment. Even though there are conventional disposal methods for E&E waste, these methods have disadvantages from both economic and environmental viewpoints. This paper examines the existing recycling situations and collection methods of E&E waste in India and Switzerland. Questionnaire survey, interview discussions and case studies are conducted. Their E&E waste scenario and technologies applied for E&E waste are investigated. It is found that India performs better in E&E intensity per service unit and employment potentials, while Switzerland performs better in occupational hazards and emissions of toxics. Recommendations to improve the existing E&E waste recycling situations and its implications to green building are also given.