Special ops agent Himmat Singh, a man whose face mirrored the grime of Delhi’s underbelly, squinted at the smouldering crater that was once a recycling plant. E-waste fires were common, but this one felt different. A stench of burnt plastic mingled with something metallic, acrid and unfamiliar.

55 Himmat had his suspicions. The whispers about the e-waste mafia merging with a local terrorist gang had reached him. E-waste wasn’t just about copper wires anymore; it held a sinister secret – rare earth elements. These minerals, crucial for modern electronics, were also perfect for miniaturizing bombs.

His informant, a scrawny teenager named Rahul who navigated the dumpsite like a shadow, confirmed his fears. The gang, calling themselves the ‘Toxic Tigers,’ were smuggling the elements out, replacing them with cheap fakes. These fakes, then, would trickle back into the market, overloading circuits and causing fires – a smokescreen for their real agenda.

Himmat knew he was outmatched. The Toxic Tigers had muscle, and the police force was riddled with informants. He needed a ghost, someone who wouldn’t show up on any radar. Enter Ruhani, an ex-hacker with a chip on her shoulder and a knack for disappearing into the digital ether.

Together, they were an unlikely duo – the grizzled cop and the tech wiz. Ruhani hacked into the gang’s network, piecing together their operation. The leader, a ruthless man named Sultan, was planning a strike during the Independence Day celebrations. Their target: a parade route teeming with dignitaries.

Himmat, armed with Ruhani’s intel, raided a warehouse stacked with e-waste, a front for the Tigers’ bombmaking factory. The place erupted into chaos, a ballet of flying wires and sparking transformers. Himmat, using his old-school tactics, and Ruhani, with a well-placed virus, managed to cripple the operation.

Sultan, cornered, lunged for a detonator. In the ensuing struggle, a stray bullet pierced a canister of rare earth elements, showering the room in a blinding flash. When the dust settled, the Sultan was gone, presumed dead, and the threat neutralised.

The news labelled it a gang war gone wrong. But Himmat and Ruhani knew the truth. In the dark alleys of e-waste, a different kind of war had been fought, a victory for the ones who refused to be choked by the toxic fumes of greed. Yet, they knew this was just one battle. The fight for a cleaner, safer world was far from over.

Maybe the above plot is taken from web-series, but e-waste is one of the most dangerous mild-behaving threats to society like a sleeper cell, if not managed in a proper way. Improper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) is a significant threat to sustainable habitats. While often overlooked, its impacts are far-reaching and detrimental to environmental health and sustainability.

In 2016, West Bengal generated around 5,872.50 MT of electrical or electronic waste (e-waste) as per the study conducted by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) in association with the National Institute of Electronics and Telecommunication.

A 2021 report by WEBEL estimated that the total e-waste generated in West Bengal was 26,254 MT in 2018- 19, 29,684 MT in 2019-20, and 33,556 MT in 2020-21. The per capita e-waste generation per year for the state was estimated to be 314 grams per person in 2020-21. Other estimates put the daily generation of e-waste in West Bengal at 20 tonnes. An e-waste management facility in Sonarpur is expected to handle 6 tonnes of e-waste per day.

In 2020, West Bengal produced approximately 41,847 tonnes of e-waste, showing that West Bengal produced 9.8% of India’s total e-waste (by weight).

Also Read :- WEBEL’s Role in e-Waste Management in West Bengal

Environmental Stewardship

WEBEL’s role as the State Implementing Agency (SIA) and State Level Nodal Agency (SLNA) for e-waste management in West Bengal demonstrates a clear commitment to environmental sustainability. They are responsible for overseeing the entire e-waste management process, from collection and segregation to dismantling and recycling. In the last couple of years, WEBEL has served more than 100 clients in this field and is actively working to reduce the environmental impact of e-waste through several initiatives:

• Collaborating with the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) on e-waste management initiatives.
• Organising e-waste collection camps and partnering with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) for borough-level collection for citizens and awareness campaigns.
• Promoting and facilitating responsible e-waste recycling through authorised dismantlers and recyclers.
• Planning to establish a 6-tonnesper-day capacity e-waste recycling plant at Sonarpur.

Social Responsibility

WEBEL’s initiatives extend beyond environmental concerns to encompass social responsibility. They are actively working to protect public health and promote social well-being through their e-waste management efforts. This includes:

• Protecting public health: By reducing exposure to hazardous materials in e-waste, WEBEL is safeguarding the health of communities. Improper e-waste disposal can contaminate groundwater and soil with toxins such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, leading to serious health issues. WEBEL’s efforts in promoting responsible e-waste handling and recycling help mitigate these risks.
• Conducting awareness programmes: WEBEL conducts extensive awareness programmes to educate various stakeholders about responsible e-waste management. These programmes target a wide range of participants, including government officials, urban local bodies, manufacturers, recyclers, and NGOs. By raising awareness about the hazards of improper e-waste disposal and the benefits of recycling, WEBEL is fostering a culture of responsible e-waste management.
• Facilitating job creation: The growing e-waste recycling sector offers opportunities for green jobs and economic growth. WEBEL’s efforts in promoting the formalisation and development of the e-waste recycling industry contribute to job creation and livelihood opportunities, particularly for those working in the informal sector.
• Partnering with KMC: WEBEL is collaborating with KMC to offer incentives to citizens who participate in e-waste collection drives. These incentives encourage public participation and promote responsible e-waste disposal, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for all.

Governance Practices

WEBEL’s actions in e-waste management reflect good governance practices. They demonstrate transparency, accountability, and a commitment to working within established regulatory frameworks. Some examples of this include:

• Collaborating with government agencies: WEBEL works closely with government agencies such as the Department of Information Technology & Electronics and the WBPCB. These collaborations ensure alignment with government policies and regulations, promoting a coordinated and effective approach to e-waste management.
• Ensuring compliance: WEBEL is committed to ensuring compliance with the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022. These rules outline the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including producers, consumers, and recyclers, in managing e-waste responsibly. WEBEL’s efforts in monitoring and enforcing these rules contribute to a more sustainable and regulated e-waste management system.
• Maintaining transparency: WEBEL maintains transparency and accountability through data collection, documentation, and reporting on e-waste management efforts. They track the amount of e-waste collected, recycled, and disposed of, providing valuable data for monitoring progress and evaluating the effectiveness of their initiatives. This transparent approach fosters trust and accountability among stakeholders.

The Government of India (GoI) has increasingly recognised the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in ensuring sustainable economic growth and addressing global and local challenges. While there is no single unified ESG policy from the Government, several initiatives and frameworks have been put in place to promote ESG practices across industries.

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, NAPCC outlines India’s strategy to address climate change. It is a part of the country’s broader sustainability and ESG goals. The plan includes missions focused on solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable habitat, water conservation, and more.
• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI): SEBI has taken steps toward integrating ESG into corporate governance through regulations for listed companies.
• BRSR (Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report): In 2021, SEBI introduced the mandatory disclosure of ESGrelated metrics for the top 1000 listed companies (by market capitalisation) in India. These companies must report their sustainability efforts, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance practices.
• Green Bonds: SEBI also supports the issuance of green bonds, encouraging companies to fund environmentally sustainable projects.
• National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC): Issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), these guidelines promote responsible business behaviour, encompassing principles of sustainability, social inclusion, and ethical governance.
• Integrated Reporting (IR): The Government is pushing for integrated reporting where companies report on their financial, environmental, social, and governance performance. This is part of the global push to encourage transparency in business operations.
• Indian Companies Act, 2013: The Companies Act mandates certain sustainability practices under Section 135, such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which requires larger companies to allocate a percentage of profits for social and environmental causes.
• Support for Renewable Energy & Green Tech: The Government has set ambitious goals for renewable energy capacity, aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power by 2030. Policies and financial incentives, such as subsidies and tax breaks, are provided to businesses adopting green technologies, helping them align with ESG principles.

Also Read :- The Path From Education to Employment Guided by WEBEL Learning Services

Benefits of WEBEL’s ESG Framework

Adopting an ESG framework brings numerous benefits to industries across sectors. These benefits are not only tied to ethical or regulatory compliance but also to financial performance, long-term sustainability, and competitive advantage.

Enhanced Reputation: As a consulting agency, WEBEL’s responsible and sustainable reputation and clear public commitment to ESG principles would enhance the image of a company that can attract investors, partners, and customers who prioritise sustainability, further strengthening its position in the market.

Improved Stakeholder Relationships: WEBEL’s existing initiatives, trust and goodwill can lead to demonstrating strong ESG performance to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, including investors, customers, employees, and the community.

Access to Funding: Embracing ESG principles can open up opportunities for funding from investors and organisations that prioritise sustainability. Many investors are increasingly seeking to invest in companies with strong ESG credentials, recognising the long-term value and reduced risk associated with sustainable practices.

Risk Mitigation: Proactively addressing ESG concerns, WEBEL can help mitigate potential risks related to environmental regulations, social issues, and governance challenges, also to avoid potential fines, reputational damage, and operational disruptions by staying ahead of evolving regulations and stakeholder expectations.

Access to Capital: Investors are increasingly focusing on companies with robust ESG practices. Institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds, are considering ESG performance in their investment decisions. ESG-compliant companies are more likely to secure funding at favourable terms.

Cost Savings: Companies that implement sustainable practices—such as reducing energy consumption, waste management, and improving resource efficiency—can see significant cost savings. These measures reduce longterm operational costs while improving profitability.

Enhanced Reputation and Brand Loyalty: Companies that actively manage their ESG profile often gain trust from customers, employees, and other stakeholders. This leads to greater brand loyalty and stronger relationships with consumers who are increasingly prioritising sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

Compliance with Regulatory Standards: As governments worldwide tighten regulations on ESG-related issues, industries that adopt ESG standards proactively are less likely to face penalties, fines, or reputational damage. Compliance with ESG standards often aligns with national and international laws, helping businesses stay ahead of regulatory changes.

Attracting and Retaining Talent: Companies with strong ESG frameworks are more attractive to top talent, particularly millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly seeking employers that align with their values. A positive work environment, focus on diversity, and commitment to social causes contribute to higher employee satisfaction and retention.

Long-Term Sustainability and Growth: A strong ESG strategy aligns companies with global trends in sustainable development and climate action. Businesses that fail to adapt to these changes may be left behind. A focus on sustainable growth can open new markets and opportunities, especially in sectors like renewable energy, electric vehicles, and clean technology.

Competitive Advantage: Companies that integrate ESG into their strategy often find new avenues for innovation and differentiation. They can launch new products or services that cater to the growing demand for sustainable and ethically produced goods, gaining an edge over competitors who are slower to adapt.

Boost to the Economy and Society: On a macro level, industry-wide adoption of ESG practices can lead to positive economic and social outcomes, including job creation in green industries, healthier communities, and enhanced overall wellbeing. This fosters a more resilient economy.

A cleaner and healthier environment: WEBEL’s commitment to responsible e-waste management contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment for all. By reducing pollution, conserving natural resources, and promoting a circular economy, WEBEL’s initiatives help protect the environment for current and future generations.

Improved public health: Reducing exposure to hazardous materials in e-waste protects the health of communities, particularly vulnerable populations. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly susceptible to the adverse health effects of e-waste toxins. WEBEL’s efforts in ensuring safe e-waste handling and recycling contribute to a healthier and safer environment for everyone.

Job creation: The growing e-waste recycling sector provides opportunities for green jobs and economic growth. WEBEL’s support for the formalisation and development of this sector contributes to job creation and economic development in West Bengal, providing livelihood opportunities and boosting the local economy.

A Call to Action for All Stakeholders

The active participation of all stakeholders—producers, consumers, government agencies, educational institutions, NGOs, and community organisations—is crucial for realising WEBEL’s vision and creating a circular economy. By working together, we can ensure a sustainable future where electronic waste is managed responsibly, minimising its environmental impact and maximising its potential for resource recovery and economic development.

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