2017全球电子垃圾监测报告（英文版）_116页-6mb

The Global E-waste Monitor 2017 Summary

Core Content

The Global E-waste Monitor 2017 is a collaborative report by the United Nations University (UNU), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA). It provides a comprehensive overview of global e-waste statistics, focusing on quantities, flows, and resources. The report highlights the growing issue of e-waste and the need for better data and management practices to address its environmental, health, and economic impacts.

Main Points

• E-waste Definition: Electronic waste (e-waste) includes all electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and its parts that are discarded without the intention of reuse. It is also known as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) and covers six main categories: temperature exchange equipment, screens, lamps, large equipment, small equipment, and small IT and telecommunication equipment.

• Global E-waste Statistics: In 2016, the world generated 44.7 million metric tonnes (Mt) of e-waste, equivalent to 6.1 kg per inhabitant. This is expected to increase to 52.2 Mt or 6.8 kg per inhabitant by 2021.

• Recycling Rates: Only 20% of the e-waste generated is documented to be collected and recycled, with 8.9 Mt being collected globally in 2016. The majority of e-waste is either landfilled or incinerated, often without proper treatment.

• Regional Breakdown:

  • Asia generated the most e-waste (18.2 Mt) in 2016.
  • Europe followed with 12.3 Mt, and Oceania had the highest e-waste generation per inhabitant (17.3 kg/inh), although it had the lowest collection rate (6%).
  • Africa generated the least e-waste (2.2 Mt), with only 1.9 kg/inh and limited data on collection and recycling.

• Legislation Coverage: 66% of the global population is covered by e-waste legislation, up from 44% in 2014. However, enforcement and implementation remain major challenges, especially in low-income countries.

• Data Gaps: Only 41 countries have official e-waste statistics. The rest rely on research estimates, and the fate of 34.1 Mt of e-waste remains unknown.

• Economic Value: The total value of raw materials in e-waste is estimated at €55 billion in 2016, highlighting the economic potential of better e-waste management through circular economy models.

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): E-waste is closely linked to several SDGs:

  • Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being): E-waste contains hazardous substances that can contaminate air, water, and soil.
  • Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Pollution from e-waste affects water and sanitation.
  • Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Proper e-waste management can create jobs and drive entrepreneurship.
  • Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Urban areas are major generators of e-waste, and better waste management is crucial for sustainable urban development.
  • Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): E-waste challenges sustainable consumption and production practices.
  • Goal 14 (Life Below Water): E-waste contributes to marine pollution and the degradation of marine ecosystems.

Key Information

• E-waste Trends: The increasing use of ICT and shorter replacement cycles for electronic devices are key drivers of e-waste growth.
• Transboundary Movement: A significant portion of e-waste is moved from developed to developing countries, often without proper documentation or regulation.
• Informal Sector: Many e-waste recycling jobs are in the informal sector, which poses health and safety risks to workers.
• Circular Economy: Better e-waste management can support the circular economy by recovering valuable materials and reducing environmental pollution.
• Need for Better Data: Reliable and comparable e-waste data is essential for evaluating policies, tracking progress, and promoting sustainable practices.

Structure

• Introduction: Overview of the report and its purpose.
• E-waste Definition: Clarification of what constitutes e-waste.
• E-waste and SDGs: Analysis of e-waste's impact on various SDGs.
• ICT and EEE Trends: Examination of global ICT usage and EEE consumption patterns.
• E-waste Statistics: Assessment of the availability and reliability of international e-waste data.
• Standards and Methodologies: Discussion on the methods used to measure e-waste.
• Global E-waste Status: Summary of global e-waste generation and recycling trends.
• Transboundary Movement: Insights into the movement of e-waste across borders.
• Legislation Status: Evaluation of current e-waste legislation and its coverage.
• Urban Mining: Exploration of the potential for recovering resources from e-waste.
• Regional Status: Detailed regional analysis of e-waste generation and management.
• Conclusion: Emphasis on the importance of data collection and policy improvement for effective e-waste management.

Conclusion

The report underscores the urgent need for improved e-waste data, stronger legislation, and better management practices to address the growing e-waste challenge. It also highlights the economic and environmental benefits of adopting circular economy models and the role of e-waste in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Global Partnership for E-waste Statistics was launched to help countries collect and share e-waste data, promoting global awareness and informed decision-making.