Electronic waste generation worldwide stood at roughly 62 million metric tons in 2022. Several factors, such as increased spending power, and the availability of electronics, has fueled e-waste generation in recent decades, making it the fastest growing waste stream worldwide. This trend is expected to continue, with annual e-waste generation forecast at 82 million metric tons in 2030.

How much e-waste do people produce?

Globally, e-waste generation per capita averaged 7.8 kilograms in 2022. However, this differs greatly depending on the region. While Asia produces the most e-waste worldwide in volume, Europe and Oceania were the regions with the highest e-waste generation per capita, at 17.6 and 16.1 kilograms respectively.

E-waste disposal

In 2022, the share of e-waste formally collected and recycled worldwide stood at 22.3 percent. Meanwhile, around 48 million metric tons are estimated to have been collected informally, with 29 percent of this value being disposed as residual waste, most likely ending up in landfills. Due to the hazardous materials that are often used in electronics, improper e-waste disposal is a growing environmental concern worldwide.

E-waste generation worldwide has nearly doubled since 2010, from **** million metric tons to roughly ** million tons in 2022. Electronic waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams, with global e-waste generation projected to reach ** million metric tons by 2030. What makes up electronic waste? In 2022, small equipment, such as vacuum cleaners, microwaves, toasters, and electric kettles made up the largest share of global electronic waste generation, at more than **** million metric tons. Another ** million metric tons of large equipment waste was also generated that year. Although still accounting for less than one percent of e-waste generated worldwide, the growth in solar PV capacity worldwide has seen photovoltaic panels as a growing waste stream. Where is electronic waste generated? China is by far the largest e-waste generating country worldwide, with more than ** million metric tons generated in 2022. In fact, Asia accounted for nearly half of all e-waste generated that year. Nevertheless, when it comes to e-waste generation per capita, four of the top five countries were located in Europe, with Norway leading the ranking at **** kilograms per inhabitant.

Introduction

E-waste Statistics: The rapid increase in electronic waste (e-waste) generation has made it one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally. With constant technological advancements, millions of tons of e-waste, such as old smartphones, computers, and household appliances, are discarded every year.

This rise in e-waste is fueled by the rapid obsolescence of electronic devices and the growing demand for newer models. E-waste poses serious environmental and health threats due to the presence of hazardous substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium. However, it also offers opportunities for recycling, resource recovery, and sustainable waste management.

Governments, industries, and consumers are increasingly aware of the need for effective strategies to tackle these challenges and harness the valuable materials within discarded electronics.

Presence of various types of household electronic waste (eWaste) and disposal methods used in previous 12 months.

The dataset contains year- and state-wise total quantity of electronic waste (E-waste) which is collected and processed.

Note:

The blank cells in the dataset represent no data being reported by the respective states

Sustainable management of electronic waste is critical to achieving a circular-economy and minimizing environment and public health risks. The objective of this study was to investigate the use of pyrolysis as a possible technique to recover valuable materials and energy from different components of e-waste as an alternative approach for limiting their disposal to landfills. The study includes investigating the potential impact of thermal processing of e-waste.Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTG) of e-waste components were used to better understand the mass loss characteristics of the pyrolysis process up to 700 oC. The changes in e-waste chemical components during pyrolysis were considered using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques. The energy recovery from pyrolysis was made in a horizontal tube furnace under anoxic and isothermal condition of selected temperatures of 300, 400 and 500 oC. Critical and valuable metals were recovered from electronic components. Pyrolysis produced liquid and gas mixtures organic compounds that can be used as fuels, but the process also emitted particulate matter and semi-volatile organic products, and the remaining ash contained leachable pollutants. Furthermore, toxicity leaching characteristic profile of e-waste and partly oxidized products were conducted to measure the levels of pollutants leached before and after pyrolysis at selected temperatures. The results of this study contribute to the development of alternative approaches to practical recycling that could especially help reduce plastic pollution and recover materials of value from e-waste. Additionally, this information may be used to assess the risk of exposure of workers to emissions semi-formal recycling centers. This dataset is associated with the following publication: Sahle-Demessie, E., B. Mezgebe, J. Dietrich, Y. Shan, S. Harmon, and C.C. Lee. Material recovery from electronic waste using pyrolysis: Emissions measurements and risk assessment. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering. Elsevier B.V., Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS, 9(1): 104943, (2021).

In 2022, ** percent of e-waste generated in the Americas was documented as formally collected and recycled. Nevertheless, rates varied significantly across the continent; while more than ** percent of e-waste was collected in North America (U.S. and Canada), in South America this figure stood below ***** percent. E-waste generation in the Americas amounted to **** million metric tons that year.

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Electronic Waste Recycling Market Size 2025-2029

The electronic waste recycling market size is forecast to increase by USD 32.74 billion at a CAGR of 21.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by stringent government regulations mandating proper e-waste management. These regulations aim to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with the improper disposal of electronic waste. Furthermore, the increasing number of mergers and acquisitions among market companies signifies a consolidating industry, with companies seeking to expand their market presence and enhance their capabilities. However, a significant challenge facing the market is the lack of awareness about proper methods of e-waste segregation. Battery recycling and CRT recycling are essential sub-segments, given the hazardous nature of these materials.
Companies in this market must navigate these challenges by investing in public awareness campaigns and developing innovative solutions for e-waste segregation and recycling to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable waste management practices. This obstacle hampers the effective collection and recycling of e-waste, limiting the potential for value recovery and sustainable disposal solutions.

What will be the Size of the Electronic Waste Recycling Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The electronic waste (e-waste) recycling market is characterized by continuous innovation in recycling processes, ensuring the safe dismantling of e-waste while adhering to occupational safety standards. Metal refining and material separation technologies, such as pre-treatment processes and plastic granulation, play a crucial role in the efficient extraction of precious metals. National e-waste policies and sustainability reporting are driving the industry towards greater environmental stewardship, with post-treatment processes and energy recovery becoming increasingly important. Quality assurance and recycling certifications are essential for maintaining industry best practices and stakeholder engagement.

Data analytics and waste characterization facilitate policy analysis and recycling economics, while environmental remediation and recycling facility optimization ensure regulatory compliance. Public awareness campaigns and waste classification efforts contribute to the overall success of the market, with a focus on circular economy principles and circular business models.

How is this Electronic Waste Recycling Industry segmented?

The electronic waste recycling industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Material

  Metals and chemicals
  Plastic
  Glass


Source

  Household appliances
  Entertainment and consumer electronics
  IT and telecom
  Medical equipment
  Others


Method

  Mechanical recycling
  Pyrolysis
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Material Insights

The Metals and chemicals segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market is driven by various entities and trends. The metals and chemicals segment, a significant component, focuses on recovering valuable metals like gold, silver, and copper, as well as safely disposing of hazardous materials. This segment's dominance is due to the economic incentive of extracting and reusing precious metals, essential for electronic manufacturing given the limited natural resources. Regulations mandate proper disposal and recycling of toxic substances to mitigate environmental and health risks. IoT technology integration in recycling processes enhances efficiency and accuracy, while AI and big data analytics facilitate material identification and sorting. Producer responsibility schemes promote take-back programs, ensuring compliance with waste management regulations.

Sustainable practices, such as plastics recycling and circular economy principles, reduce the carbon footprint and promote resource recovery. Recycling technologies, including sorting and shredding, treatment, and processing equipment, enable the recovery of various components, such as CRT glass, batteries, and precious metals. Quality control measures, including manual sorting and automated sorting, ensure the highest standards. Reverse logistics and material flow analysis optimize the supply chain, ensuring efficient e-waste collection and transportation. Data sanitization and security are crucial in th

From January to September 2024, approximately 375 thousand metric tons of household waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) were collected in the United Kingdom. On average, some 120,000 metric tons of household electronic waste are collected each quarter. The UK is one of the biggest producers of e-waste in the world. Types of e-wasteWEEE, often referred to as e-waste, consists of electronic products that are discarded at the end of their useful life. Types of e-waste include phones, computers, and light bulbs, as well as large household appliances such as fridges, microwaves, and washing machines. The latter category makes up the largest volume of collected e-waste in the United Kingdom. E-waste a growing problemE-waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the world. There are health concerns over the way it is disposed of, as large amounts are exported to developing countries. With a lack of proper waste management, electronics are often burnt, resulting in the likely contamination of soil, water, and food. It is estimated that less than one-third of electronic waste generated worldwide is formally collected and recycled.

(i) Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), also known as e-waste, such as computers, televisions, fridges and mobile phones, is one the fastest growing waste streams in the EU. WEEE include precious materials the recycling of which should be enhanced. (ii) The indicator is calculated by multiplying the 'collection rate' as set out in the WEEE Directive with the 'reuse and recycling rate' set out in the WEEE Directive; where: o The 'collection rate' equals the volumes collected of WEEE in the reference year divided by the average quantity of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) put on the market in the previous three years (both expressed in mass unit). o The 'reuse and recycling rate' is calculated by dividing the weight of WEEE that enters the recycling/preparing for re-use facility by the weight of all separately collected WEEE (both in mass unit) in accordance with Article 11(2) of the WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU, considering that the total amount of collected WEEE is sent to treatment/recycling facilities. The indicator is expressed in percent (%) as both terms are measured in the same unit. (iii) EU Member States plus the United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway (iv)

China is by far the largest producer of electronic waste worldwide, generating more than ** million metric tons worth in 2022. The United States followed, with roughly ***** million metric tons produced. Global electronic waste generation amounted to approximately ** million metric tons in 2022 and is expected to increase further in the coming years. What is electronic waste? Electronic waste is often referred to as e-waste, and is the fastest growing waste stream worldwide. E-waste consists of electronic equipment that has reached the end of its useful life. It includes a wide variety of products used in everyday life such as old phones, televisions, fridges, and air conditioners. The most common type of e-waste is small equipment as microwaves, electric kettles, and cameras. E-waste disposal Due to electronic products often containing harmful components, proper disposal of e-waste is imperative. However, the destination of e-waste generated worldwide still goes mostly undocumented, with millions of tons estimated to end up annually in landfills. Improper disposal can not only cause major environmental hazards, such as toxic chemical leaching; e-waste contains valuable resources such as gold, silver, and platinum. It is projected that billions of dollars’ worth of these valuable metals are discarded with e-waste every year.

The E-Waste Management Market Report is Segmented by Material (Metals, Plastics and More), by Source (Consumer Electronics, EV Batteries and More), by Service Type (Recycling & Recovery, Collection, Transportation & Sorting, Disposal/Treatment, and More), and by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and More). The Report Offers Market Size and Forecasts in Value (USD) for all the Above Segments.

The global E-waste management market size reached USD 80.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 206.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 11% during 2025-2033. The significant investments in recycling infrastructure, expansion of leading companies globally, growing research and development activities, increasing number of key players seeking environmental certifications, and growing awareness about the importance of e-waste disposal are some of the factors propelling the market..

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on material type, source type and application.

This base line study was launched to determine the problem on the amount of e-waste that has been generated with some self induced due to lack of quality control at point of entry. The objective of the report is to determine the existing status of electrical and electronic waste in Kiribati in identifying the source, the flow and the quantities of e-waste generated with a view to have a better insight understanding of this in the country.

The North America e-waste management market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $32.05 billion in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.98% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Increasing electronic device consumption coupled with shorter product lifecycles generates a massive and ever-growing stream of electronic waste. Simultaneously, stringent environmental regulations and growing awareness of the environmental and health hazards associated with improper e-waste disposal are pushing companies and governments to adopt more sustainable practices. Furthermore, advancements in e-waste recycling technologies, such as automated sorting systems and improved material recovery processes, are contributing to increased efficiency and profitability within the industry, fueling further market expansion. Key players such as Waste Management Inc., Waste Connections, Clean Harbors Inc., and others are strategically investing in infrastructure and technological upgrades to capitalize on this expanding market. The market's segmentation is further influenced by the diverse types of e-waste generated (e.g., mobile phones, computers, televisions), the varied recycling methods employed (e.g., material recovery, data sanitization, dismantling), and the geographical distribution of e-waste across the region. While precise segmental breakdowns are unavailable, it's reasonable to infer that segments related to data security and precious metal recovery are experiencing particularly high growth, driven by increasing data privacy concerns and the fluctuating value of materials like gold and platinum found in electronic devices. Continued innovation in recycling technologies and the increasing stringency of environmental legislation will be crucial determinants shaping the future trajectory of the North American e-waste management market. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Volume of E-Waste, Stringent Government Regulations and Policies. Potential restraints include: Growing Volume of E-Waste, Stringent Government Regulations and Policies. Notable trends are: United States Prioritizes Domestic E-waste Recycling to Tackle Counterfeiting and Boost Security.

Data on Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is collected on the basis of Directive 2012/19/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The purpose of the collected data is to monitor compliance of countries with the quantitative targets for collection, preparing for re-use and recycling, and recovery of WEEE that are set out in Article 7 (collection rate) and Article 11 and Annex V (recovery targets).

Further information on the policy need of data on WEEE can be found on the following website of Directorate-General for Environment website.

The global electronics recycling and IT asset disposition (ITAD) market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing e-waste generation, stringent environmental regulations, and the rising demand for data security. The market, estimated at $80 billion in 2025, is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $135 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rapid proliferation of electronic devices across various sectors – medical, education, finance, and government – contributes significantly to e-waste volumes, necessitating efficient recycling and disposal solutions. Secondly, growing awareness of environmental concerns and the associated regulatory pressures globally are compelling businesses to adopt sustainable e-waste management practices, boosting demand for ITAD services. Furthermore, the increasing need for secure data erasure and responsible disposal of sensitive data stored on end-of-life IT assets is driving adoption of ITAD services, especially within the financial services and government sectors. The market segmentation reveals significant opportunities within specific applications and types of services. The medical industry, with its high volume of specialized electronic equipment requiring careful handling, presents a particularly lucrative segment. Similarly, the ITAD segment is witnessing rapid growth driven by the increasing data security concerns and stringent compliance requirements. Geographically, North America and Europe currently hold substantial market shares, owing to established recycling infrastructure and stringent regulations. However, the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, exhibits significant growth potential due to rapid technological advancements and rising e-waste generation. Key players are expanding their global footprint through strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and technological innovations to cater to the evolving market landscape. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established multinational corporations and specialized ITAD providers, leading to innovation and competitive pricing. Challenges, however, include the need for consistent global standards, effective waste collection mechanisms, and managing the complexities associated with different types of electronic waste and the precious metals they contain.

The global computer recycling market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing e-waste generation, stringent environmental regulations, and the rising demand for precious metals recovered from discarded electronics. The market, estimated at $15 billion in 2025, is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $28 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rapid pace of technological advancements leads to shorter product lifecycles and a consequent surge in electronic waste. Secondly, governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations on e-waste disposal, incentivizing responsible recycling practices. This regulatory push is particularly pronounced in developed regions like North America and Europe, which are expected to maintain significant market shares. Thirdly, the economic value of recovering precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum from discarded computers is a significant driver, making recycling financially attractive for businesses and governments alike. The market segmentation reveals a strong preference for online recycling services, reflecting the convenience and reach of digital platforms. PC recycling currently dominates the types segment, although notebook and other device recycling are showing promising growth potential. Key players in the computer recycling industry include Sims Recycling Solutions, Electronic Recyclers International, and others listed. Competitive dynamics are shaped by technological advancements in recycling processes, the development of efficient logistics networks, and the ability to secure and process large volumes of e-waste. Challenges remain, including the complexities of managing hazardous materials and ensuring data security during the recycling process. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the computer recycling market remains positive, underpinned by the continuous increase in electronic waste generation and the growing awareness of environmental sustainability. Geographic growth will likely be distributed across regions, with North America and Europe maintaining leading positions due to their high electronic consumption and well-established recycling infrastructure. Asia-Pacific, however, shows significant growth potential, driven by rapidly expanding economies and increasing e-waste generation in countries like China and India.

The APAC E-Waste Management Market report segments the industry into By Material Type (Metal, Plastic, Glass, Other Materials), By Source Type (Consumer Electronics, Industrial Electronics, Household Appliances, Other Sources), By Application (Landfill, Recycled, Other Applications) and By Country (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

E-Waste Management Market Size is Projected to hit USD 179.39 Billion by 2032 from a value of USD 60.30 Billion in 2024 and is predicted to reach USD 68.65 Billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 14.6% from 2025 to 2032.