New Delhi: What happens to our electronic devices when they stop working or become outdated? From old mobile phones and chargers to discarded computers and batteries, electronic waste is growing rapidly, making its responsible management essential for a healthier planet, experts say.To promote environmental awareness among students, Samagra Shiksha by Delhi govt has decided to undertake initiatives on e-waste management to educate students about the importance of proper segregation, collection, recycling and responsible disposal of electronic waste.Through these initiatives, students will learn to identify common e-waste items like discarded mobile phones, chargers, computers, keyboards and batteries, and understand why these should be segregated from regular household waste. They will also learn about the harmful effects of improper e-waste disposal on the environment and human health, including the risks of soil and water contamination.According to education department officials, students will be sensitised to the importance of recycling electronic waste, recovering valuable materials and handing over discarded electronic items to authorised recyclers or refurbishers for safe and responsible disposal. “By developing these essential habits, students can become informed and responsible citizens who contribute towards reducing electronic pollution, conserving valuable resources and protecting the environment,” said an official.The initiative will also encourage them to spread awareness among their families and communities, inspiring others to adopt environmentally responsible practices.Recent initiatives have focused on combining awareness with practical collection activities. In 2025, a year-long sustainability programme introduced workshops on the environmental hazards of e-waste, encouraged students to establish collection points and involved them in explaining responsible disposal to parents. Surveys before and after the activities assessed changes in their understanding.A Nov 2025 school collection drive also encouraged students to bring unused electronic items from home and deposit them in designated drop boxes, linking lessons on sustainable waste management with participation by families.
