Page 53 - Mann Ki Baat January, 2023

Kabadiwala: Using Technology To

Eliminate e-Waste

Increasing demand for
electronic devices is creating the
world’s fastest-growing waste
stream, the e-waste. While more
electronic devices are part of the
problem, they also can be a big
part of the solution, if disposed of
and recycled properly. There are
numerous start-ups working in
our very own country to solve this
global issue by coming up with
innovations to tackle e-waste. collect e-waste from people, who
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in otherwise will dispose it off in a
his recent 'Mann ki Baat' address, way that can cause great harm
highlighted the work done by to the environment and health.
Kabadiwala, a start-up that The Kabadiwala is a
makes the collection of e-waste unique platform that provides
hassle-free. door-step collection services
The team of Doordarshan for all recyclable materials
talked to Shri Anurag Asati, including e-waste. Currently,
the co-founder of Kabadiwala we are working in six cities and
mobile app to know more. serve more than two lakhs
“Each day people are customers. We provide on-call
producing more and more or mobile app-based booking
e-waste, but we don’t have of kabad pick-up. We also work
enough mechanism in the whole closely with the Government in
world to dispose the same. managing its material recovery
Around thousands of tonnes of centre.
e-waste is not handled properly. We are beyond elated
e-Waste, which is a source to and honoured to have been
various hazardous materials, is mentioned by the Prime Minister
more polluting than other forms in his latest 'Mann ki Baat' address.
of waste. Hence, its scientific This recognition has motivated
disposal and recycling is us to work even harder. We
required. If this is done properly, are proud to play a vital role in
it can convert waste to wealth the recycling industry and are
which will not only contribute to grateful for the support of our
the circular economy but will also fellow citizens. Together, we can
help in job creation. At present, create a cleaner and greener
one of the major challenges is to India.”

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