The Global Overview of Electronics Recycling in 2025

The Global Context of Electronics Recycling

By 2025, electronics recycling will be one of the biggest global sustainability and waste management challenges, requiring the integration of robust public policies and advanced technologies for the proper treatment of these materials. Statistics from the United Nations indicate that the global generation of electronic waste is expected to reach 74 million tons by 2025, highlighting the imperative need for effective solutions for the management of obsolete equipment.

Legislation and Regulations in Force

The Brazilian regulatory framework for solid waste management, including electronics, is supported by Law No. 12.305/2010 and the national solid waste system (SINIR). Article 33 of this law establishes shared responsibility for the product's life cycle, encouraging the development of technologies and practices that promote reuse and recycling.

In addition, the Waste Technical Manual of the SINIR specifies guidelines for the correct treatment of electronic waste, emphasizing the importance of certified processes and environmentally appropriate disposal.

Technological Trends and Innovation

By 2025, automation and artificial intelligence have been integrated into reuse units for sorting and disassembling electronics. The efficiency of these systems improves the recovery of valuable materials and reduces environmental impacts associated with improper disposal.

In addition, advances in demagnetization and decontamination techniques for sensitive devices such as hard drives and digital media stand out. For secure destruction and regulatory compliance, the procedures recommended for hard drive sanitization guarantee the complete elimination of information without compromising the integrity of the physical medium.

Management and Collection of Electronic Equipment

The organization of the reverse logistics chain requires special attention to implement efficient collection systems. The public initiative follows regulatory standards that recommend voluntary drop-off points and waste accumulation centers to guarantee the correct disposal of electronic inputs.

Formalized processes for electronic waste collection are essential to avoid irregular disposal and environmental contamination, as well as preserving natural resources through the recovery of strategic materials.

International Overview: Examples and Global Adoption

European Union member countries and Japan lead the way with strict extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies, encouraging manufacturers to make clear commitments regarding the return and reuse of post-consumer equipment.

In South America, similar policies are being adapted, with an emphasis on regulations that promote the formalization of reuse chains and consumer awareness of the risks of incorrect disposal.

Challenges and Future Prospects

The main challenges are the complexity of the components, which requires specialized processes, the fragmentation of state regulations and the insufficient infrastructure in the public sector to meet the growing demand for collection and recycling.

Increasing digitalization and a growing market for electronic devices are expected to continue to drive waste generation, reinforcing the need for continued investment in innovation, standardization and environmental education to increase recycling rates and reduce social and environmental impacts.