Global ranking: the 20 countries that generate the most e-waste

The exponential growth of electronic waste represents a global challenge. This article presents a technical ranking of the 20 countries that generate the most e-waste, based on official data, and addresses the importance of the safe and efficient management of these materials.

Contextualization of Electronic Waste

Electronic waste covers discarded equipment such as computers, cell phones, televisions and other electronic devices. The growing generation of this waste is directly related to rapid technological evolution and increased global consumption. Inadequate management of this waste impacts the environment and public health, requiring strict and efficient regulatory approaches.

Global Ranking of the 20 Countries that Generate the Most Electronic Waste

According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2023, a report consolidated by the UN University and official partners, the countries with the highest production of electronic waste in tons generated per year are listed below:

1. United States
2. China
3. Japan
4. Germany
5. United Kingdom
6. France
7. Brazil
8. South Korea
9. India
10. Italy
11. Canada
12. Australia
13. Russia
14. Mexico
15. Indonesia
16. Spain
17. Netherlands
18. Turkey
19. Poland
20. Saudi Arabia

This ranking considers quantitative aspects of tons generated annually, reflecting the technological consumption and disposal practices of each country. The official figures highlight the crucial role of public policies in managing this waste.

Legislation and Regulation in Brazil

Brazil has the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS), Law No. 12.305/2010, which establishes guidelines for the integrated management and environmentally appropriate management of waste, including electronics. The legislation imposes shared responsibility for the life cycle of products, promoting correct disposal and reuse.

In addition, the Technical Administration of SINIR guides practices and targets for the sector, increasing the effectiveness of the national waste management system.

Safe Collection and Disposal of Electronic Waste

Environmentally appropriate collection is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of electronic waste on the environment. To optimize this process, using the scheduled e-waste collection service is recommended, guaranteeing proper logistics and regulatory compliance.

The disposal of devices containing sensitive information, such as hard disks and digital media, requires specific security procedures for the final elimination of the data. The use of the secure disposal of hard drives and media ensures that sensitive information is protected during the disposal of electronic waste.

The secure disposal of devices containing sensitive information, such as hard disks and digital media, ensures proper logistics and regulatory compliance.

Challenges and Future Prospects

The constant increase in e-waste requires the improvement of public policies, recycling infrastructure and the engagement of the sectors involved. The harmonization of international standards, combined with technical awareness in the government and private sectors, is fundamental for sustainability and environmental compliance.

Strengthening the electronics waste management chain, based on legal rigor and cutting-edge technology, is essential to reducing environmental impacts and guaranteeing the security of information and natural resources.

Final considerations

Identifying the countries that generate the most e-waste is important for developing effective policies to control and dispose of this waste. Qualified technical action, based on legislation such as the PNRS and certified safe collection and disposal resources, promotes sustainable practices and environmental protection.