Abstract
In developing countries, electronic goods are common in use and generate
huge bulk of e-waste. Such waste is discharged into the environment due to broken
electronic instruments, such as used computer parts, batteries, air conditioners, mobile
phones, etc. Moreover, we cannot imagine our life without electronic gadgets. The ewaste
contains several toxic chemicals such as mercury, lead, cadmium cobalt, nickel,
and several other toxicants. Therefore, its disposal into the environment causes
pollution of soil, water, and air, posing serious threats to all living beings. These wastes
can be managed through product recycling through landfills, but it is still not a safe
method because dumping sites can spill over a huge quantity of heavy metals,
contaminating the surrounding area of soil and water. Thus, the proper management for
the treatment of such wastes is necessary for a green environment. It is necessary to
understand the public health risks and the strategies to combat this growing menace.
Therefore, the main purpose of this chapter is to provide comprehensive information
about the e-waste problems, strategies for their management, including
microbiological, physical, and chemical treatments of e-wastes. The bioreactor
technology using a specific group of microorganisms concerning to bioleaching of metals from the associated E-waste is a safe and ecofriendly remedial measure to
combat this problem.
Keywords: Bioleaching, Bioreactor, Contaminants, Ecofriendly, E-waste, Green environment, Heavy metals, Landfill, Microorganisms, Toxicants.
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