Lions Clubs International deploys nearly 10, 000 Clubs across India to solving the e-waste challenge

Delhi : In order to address the e-waste challenge, Lions Clubs International has announced the immediate deployment of over 10,000 clubs nationwide. There will be more than 300,000 volunteers involved in this endeavor, including Lions Club members.

Announcing the initiative, A P Singh, International Third Vice President, Lions Clubs International said, “Today, land, air, and water pollution are the biggest challenges facing humanity. E-waste is a clear and present threat to life forms and if left unaddressed might eventually threaten the continued existence of life on this earth.”

Used phones, batteries, laptops, and other electronic items lying around our homes are part of what makes up e-waste and are harmful if not disposed of properly because of their hazardous material content. This is an emerging global environmental and public health issue as it further depletes our natural resources, adding to land, air, and water pollution. We are exposed to serious health problems from these e-wastes, ranging from skin diseases to headaches, gastritis, and ulcers. Children have the most harmful impacts because their bodies are still developing and they are the most vulnerable population.

“What’s concerning is that a majority of e-waste collection is done via the informal sector. While the government has certain checks and balances in place in this sector, we also have a collective responsibility. It is high time for every individual to step up and take responsibility. We have been working to put into action communities into place, both locally and globally, to resolve this issue.” A. P. Singh added.

As A. P. Singh explains, “Immediate action is the need of the hour. In developed nations, e-waste management is considered the responsibility of every individual, and in India, too, Lions Clubs are all set to create that awareness. Lions will also assist people with e-waste management and run a campaign in a couple of months. The best solution is to recycle or refurbish this e-waste responsibly and even to donate these devices to underprivileged children. We sincerely believe that kindness matters. These refurbished phones and laptops could promote computer literacy and provide nearly free access to technology to those in need.”

Globally also, the Lions Club International has deployed close to 1.4 million volunteers in more than 200 countries who are dedicated to working to dispose of e-waste.