While cell phones are often discarded by individual users who do not wish to sell them for fear of their data security, laptops are often given to e-waste management firms by Information Technology (IT) and other companies. | Photo Credit: The Hindu
Several waste management companies in Bengaluru are selling discarded mobile phones and laptops at cheap prices, despite laws making it mandatory to destroy them.
These companies are licensed to handle e-waste, including electronic waste such as computers, laptops, hard disks, electronics and more. The sale of discarded mobile phones and laptops is prohibited as it may endanger the safety of individuals.
While cell phones are often discarded by individual users who do not wish to sell them for fear of their data security, laptops are often given to e-waste management firms by Information Technology (IT) and other companies. “E-waste companies must destroy the equipment by disassembling it. The electronic parts are then recycled or sold to manufacturing companies,” said an employee working with an e-waste company.
According to an official of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, there is no accurate data on the amount of e-waste generated in Bengaluru. | Photo Credit: The Hindu
iPhones are sold for ₹5,000- ₹6,000
In an effort to make more money, these companies are turning to selling products to potential consumers who cannot afford smartphones in the market, the employee added. Various iPhone models are sold for as cheap as ₹5,000 or ₹6,000. The price depends on the model and weight of the mobile phone. The same applies to laptops.
“According to the waste management rules, we must not sell the products we collect to customers. The duty of waste management is to dispose of electronic waste scientifically,” he said.
A threat to the security of personal data
UV. Ramprasad, a waste management expert, said that many e-waste management players in Shivajinagar, SP Road, Nayandahalli and Banashankari are reselling unauthorized electronics instead of demolishing them. In the age of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), a person’s data can be obtained from their devices, which endangers the safety of individuals and companies.
In Bengaluru, there are around 90 companies involved in e-waste management. Even these companies are involved in dispersal, not complete processing.
Moreover, he said, this will also give rise to cyber fraud in Bengaluru, which is already a hotbed of such crimes. The best way is internal decommissioning – companies have to dismantle laptops. However, for mobile phones, the system needs to be adjusted, he adds.
According to an official of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, there is no accurate data on the amount of e-waste generated in the city. This is also one of the reasons why this is still an unorganized sector.
Published – October 08, 2024 04:02 pm IST