Will this solution help India control e-waste?

BANGALORE, INDIA: According to 2011 Indian census report, 59 percent of Indian households have a mobile phone and 47 percent have access to toilets.

Considering the fact that the growth of mobile is high in India, the above data clearly shows that mobile phone segment - which includes mobile phones, tablets, and laptops - is growing at a rapid pace.

Another factor which contributes to the growth is the faster growth of Information technology and frequent upgrade to new product, which is forcing consumers to discard the older one. This also raises concerns how we are equipped to address the e-waste generated by these devices.

Another research by Pike Research also indicates that the number of electronic devices at end-of-life will double from 2010 to 2025, and it's estimated that over 60 million tons of electronic waste (e-waste) will be at the decision point for reuse, recycle or landfill in 2013.

While the replacement and upgrade cycle of devices is inevitable, the dilemma most organisations face is finding an environmentally friendly e-waste removal service that's available on a global scale.

To meet market demand for this growing issue that's not often discussed nor offered, Dimension Data, the global ICT services and solutions provider has announced the availability of an e-waste removal service as part of its newly expanded Technology Lifecycle Management Assessment that helps organisations better manage their inventory.

The Technology Lifecycle Management Assessment catalogues and analyses assets on the network, and identifies end-of-life and security issues so that they can be proactively addressed.

Colin Curtis, Dimension Data's director of sustainability said: "According to aggregate data compiled by Dimension Data from 294 Technology Lifecycle Management Assessments conducted on organisations of all sizes and in all industry sectors in 2011, 45 percent of the network estates assessed will be totally obsolete within five years."

In spite of having local players who offer solutions for e-waste, the authorities concerned should also take adequate measures to address the growing issue.

Considering the growth rate of e-waste in India at 10 percent per year, how do you think we can bring down the e-watse? Your views are solicited!