As Bangladesh embraces the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), experts are warning of a growing e-waste crisis that could threaten public health and the environment. With rapid digital growth and increased use of electronic devices, the country is generating over 400,000 tonnes of e-waste annually, with Dhaka alone producing more than 3,000 tonnes every day. Many of these discarded electronics come from smartphones, laptops, telecom equipment, and smart home devices that become obsolete within just a few years. In the absence of a strong recycling system, nearly 90 percent of this waste ends up in informal processing centers. These sites often rely on unsafe practices like open burning and acid washing to extract metals, exposing workers and nearby residents to toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. The environmental consequences are alarming. Harmful chemicals from broken electronics contaminate the soil and water, damaging crops, wildlife, and fisheries. People working in informal e-waste processing areas suffer from respiratory illnesses, skin diseases, and even long-term health issues like cancer and neurological disorders. Although Bangladesh introduced e-waste management rules in 2021, enforcement remains limited. Only a small number of licensed recycling facilities operate under formal guidelines, while the majority of e-waste continues to be processed in unsafe conditions. Industry experts estimate that the country is losing valuable resources—such as gold, copper, and rare earth metals—worth hundreds of millions of taka every year. But with the right steps, Bangladesh can turn this challenge into a new opportunity. Experts are calling for a stronger national strategy that includes public awareness, better recycling infrastructure, and stricter rules for manufacturers. One key idea is to make companies responsible for collecting and recycling their products under an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system. Integrating informal workers into the formal system could also improve safety and job quality. Training programs, protective equipment, and proper wages would help these workers transition to safer methods while continuing to earn a living. In addition, academic institutions and tech innovators could play a role by developing low-cost, locally adapted recycling technologies. ICT tools like digital tracking systems and AI-powered sorting can further improve recycling processes and help monitor compliance. By investing in this sector, Bangladesh has the chance to create new green jobs, recover valuable materials, and protect the environment. If action is taken now, Bangladesh can turn its looming e-waste problem into a sustainable solution that supports both the environment and its digital future.
