India has launched a $120 million initiative to promote a circular economy in the electronics sector, aiming to transform how the country manages e-waste and electronic resources. The five-year program, led by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is designed to reduce hazardous waste, recover valuable materials, and promote sustainable manufacturing.
The project will benefit around 6,400 people and prevent the release of 8,000 tonnes of toxic heavy metals, eliminate 25 tonnes of hazardous flame retardants, and reduce 600,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. It aligns with India’s larger goal of achieving a sustainable, resource-efficient economy while addressing one of the world’s fastest-growing waste challenges.
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Strengthening E-Waste Management and Industry Resilience
As the world’s third-largest generator of e-waste, India faces major environmental and health challenges—over 80% of its e-waste is processed informally, often using unsafe methods. This initiative seeks to formalize the sector by introducing safe recycling systems, eco-design practices, and advanced material recovery infrastructure.
“The initiative comes at a crucial time for India’s electronics sector,” said S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, adding that promoting circularity will boost domestic resource efficiency and self-reliance in secondary raw materials. Angela Lusigi, UNDP’s Resident Representative in India, emphasized that the program will help turn e-waste management into an opportunity for innovation and green jobs.
Global Collaboration for Green Innovation
The GEF has approved $15 million in funding, unlocking an additional $105 million in co-financing from the Indian government and industry. The combined investment will fund the development of eco-design standards, pilot battery management projects, and improved recycling and regulatory enforcement.
UNDP’s Xiaofang Zhou stressed the importance of safer recycling to reduce exposure to toxic pollutants and protect both human health and ecosystems. The initiative will also serve as a model for emerging economies facing similar e-waste challenges, positioning India as a global leader in sustainable electronics manufacturing.