E-waste as a challenge for public and ecosystem health

Lakshika Weerasundara, Kushani Mahatantila, Meththika Vithanage

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperChapterpeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

E-waste differs from other municipal waste in the means of chemically and physically, and it bears an unusual chemical composition with heavy metals, hydrocarbons, dioxins, chlorofluorocarbons, and much more, and therefore, it requires specific handling criteria. E-waste has already created many of environmental and health degradations especially, in low- to middle-income countries due to lack of regulations and implementations. As the hazardous materials from E-waste have the ability to extend beyond its original sites and contaminate the ecosystem including soil, surface and underground water, air and plants, the residents can expose to them through different pathways: soil, water, air, dust, and food. Improper handling and management of E-waste play crucial role on posing detrimental human and ecosystem health impacts, and strict implementation are urgent to mitigate those.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Electronic Waste Management
Subtitle of host publicationInternational Best Practices and Case Studies
Place of PublicationNetherlands
PublisherElsevier
Pages101-117
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)9780128170304
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2019
Externally publishedYes

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