E-waste and Amazonian biodiversity: a fundamental connection for COP30

The inadequate management of e-waste poses a significant threat to Amazonian biodiversity, affecting critical ecosystems and the environmental balance. For COP30, it is essential to integrate sustainable e-waste disposal and environmental protection policies in order to mitigate impacts on the richest biome on the planet.

Impacts of E-waste on Amazon Biodiversity

The incorrect disposal of electronic equipment generates contamination by heavy metals and toxic substances that affect the soil, water and local fauna. According to the National Solid Waste Management Information System (SINIR), electronic waste contains materials such as mercury, lead and cadmium, capable of migrating to aquatic environments, compromising aquatic and terrestrial species,
within one of Brazil's main biomes: the Amazon.

Applicable Legislation and Normative References

Decree No. 10.936/2022 regulates the reverse logistics of electrical and electronic products, establishing responsibilities for collection, recycling and environmentally appropriate disposal, in line with the practices set out in the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010). These normative instruments indicate guidelines for minimizing harmful effects on sensitive ecosystems, such as the Amazon.

Safe Collection and Management of Electronic Waste in the Amazon

The effective implementation of responsible collection of electronic waste in the region is strategic for avoiding contamination and preserving local biodiversity. Considering the wide-ranging nature of electronic waste, there is a need for adequate infrastructure, technical training and awareness-raising among those involved so that the life cycle of electronic products is environmentally sustainable.

Sanitization of Media and Safe Disposal

In addition to environmentally correct disposal, the safe sanitization of electronic media is essential to protect sensitive information and avoid legal and information security risks. Safe practices help to avoid undue exposure of data, in line with the requirements of the General Data Protection Law (Law No. 13,709/2018) and the best technical practices recommended by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology).

The Connection with COP30 and the Future of the Amazon

The United Nations Conference on Climate Change, COP30, represents a crucial point for reinforcing international commitments related to climate and the preservation of biodiversity. The inclusion of sustainable e-waste management on the COP30 agenda, especially in the Amazon context, can boost policies to reduce environmental impacts,
contributing to the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the protection of the biome.

It should be emphasized that the integration of environmental policies, e-waste management and biodiversity protection is fundamental to conserving the natural wealth of the Amazon, promoting sustainability and responsible development.