The global flow of e-waste

Electronic waste (e-waste or WEEE [Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment]) is among the fastest- growing waste streams today. Most electronic discards are produced by countries in the ‘global North’, being significant consumers of electronic products. However, these discards are often shipped to countries in the ‘global South’ to be recycled or dumped overseas. Over the years, this phenomenon has engendered the emergence of global trade, with the consequent rise and fall of recycling industries in many countries. While some scholars and political activists have driven attention to this process’s significant environmental, social and political issues, others have highlighted the potential economic benefits that e-waste.