The collected materials included laptops, electronic gadgets and various personal devices.
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Malaysian Department of Environment (DOE) announced notable surge in collection of electronic waste during the initial eleven-month period in 2021. The collection exceeded all expectations. However, the country still lags behind in e-waste collection and disposal, said environmentalists.
According to DOE statistics published yesterday, a total of 2,200 tonnes of electronic and electrical waste were collected from January to November last year. This was nearly three times more than what was anticipated for the whole year. The collected materials included laptops, electronic gadgets and various personal devices.
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Despite significant increase in the rate of e-waste collection, environmentalists noted that general awareness among public, especially youth, on the social and environmental impacts of mismanaged e-waste is significantly modest. They called for the need for more planned and coordinated efforts among public agencies and non-governmental organizations. Such efforts may lead to wise disposition of used electronics, they said.
The country still lacks infrastructure and easy access to drop-off locations. The government should introduce innovative schemes such as allowing residents to exchange e-waste for basic necessities or deduction in rental payments.
