Electronic waste is referred to as “treasure” since it constitutes a valuable resource which, when effectively managed, can foster technological innovation, economic growth, resource preservation, and environmental protection. A “treasure” perspective on electronic waste emphasizes its capacity to generate value and beneficial transformations when managed in a responsible and sustainable manner.

 There are multiple rationales for the valuation of electronic waste:

 Precious Metals– Numerous electronic devices are composed of precious metals, imposed of rare earth elements (REEs), including yttrium, dysprosium, and neodymium. These elements are indispensable in the production of technologically advanced items such as batteries, magnets, and electronics.

 Plastics: Although plastics derived from electronic detritus are not as valuable as metals, they can still be recycled and utilized in the production of new goods. Recycling plastics contributes to the mitigation of environmental contamination caused by plastic waste and decreases the demand for virgin materials.

Energy Recovery: Energy can be generated from electronic waste recycling via processes such as waste-to-energy (WtE), in addition to material recovery. Energy that is not recyclable in electronic waste can be recovered through incineration and utilized for the generation of electricity or heating systems.

 Resource conservation is facilitated through the recycling of electronic waste, as it diminishes the demand for newly produced materials. The recovery and reuse of metals, plastics, and other components derived from electronic waste (e-waste) contribute to the mitigation of environmental degradation and energy conservation associated with resource extraction, by eliminating the need for mining and extraction of basic materials.

Recycling electronic waste contributes to the #circulareconomy by completing the cycle of resource utilization. Reusing electronic waste (e-waste) instead of depositing valuable components in landfills enables the reintroduction of said components into the manufacturing process, thereby prolonging their useful life and diminishing the requirement for fresh raw materials.

Environmental Advantages: E-waste recycling contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions associated with resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal, thereby mitigating environmental contamination. By reducing the discharge of hazardous substances into the environment, electronic waste recycling safeguards ecosystems and human health.