E-Waste -Awareness-cum-Collection drive from Feb 3 to 5, 2024

To heighten awareness surrounding the crucial need for responsible e-waste disposal & scientific recycling, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board, in collaboration with M/s Karo Sambhav, an organization committed to enabling circular economy in India proudly announces an E-Waste -Awareness-cum-Collection drive from 3rd to 5th February 2024 in Shimla, and from 6th to 8th February 2024 in Solan.

Shri Sanjay Gupta (IAS), Chairman of the HP State Pollution Control Board, inaugurated the “e-waste collection drive” with the flag-off of a mobile van on 3rdFebruary 2023 at the Board’s headquarter at New Shimla. The mobile van will traverse Shimla, collecting e-waste from various locations listed in the table below.

Shri Sanjay Gupta emphasized the critical role of media in elevating awareness about the detrimental effects of improper e-waste disposal, urging them to actively join the State Pollution Control Board’s campaign. He extended gratitude to M/s Karo Sambhav for their collaboration, enhancing the impact of this important initiative.

E-waste, one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, poses a significant environmental threat. The surge in electronic device usage directly correlates with the increase in e-waste production. This waste category encompasses any electronic or electric device at the end of its life cycle. The hazardous materials within, including lead, cadmium, mercury, and brominated flame retardants, can inflict severe harm on the environment and human health if not disposed of through formal channels or recycled scientifically.

Sh. Anil Joshi (IFS), Member Secretary of the HP State Pollution Control Board, requested citizens of Shimla and Solan to actively participate in the drive by depositing or donating their e-waste to the mobile van, emphasizing the collective effort to protect the environment. Collected e-waste will be directed to authorized recyclers for safe and scientific disposal & recycling. Participation in this campaign contributes to the responsible management of e-waste, an essential step toward a sustainable future for our citizens.

Notable attendees at the inauguration included senior officers of the State Board such as Dr. Manoj Chauhan – Chief Scientific Officer, Smt. Anuradha Sharma – Jt. Controller, Shri Chandan Singh – Environment Engineer, Shri Vinod Gautam – Assistant Controller, Sh. Shashi Shekhar – Scientific Officer, and representatives of M/s Karo Sambhav Mr Jitender Bharadwaj, E-waste Specialist & Ms Sreepriya Sridharan, Manager-Strategic Alliance & Partnerships.