The rapid global rise in technology has generated advanced electrical and electronic equipment with short lifespans. For example, in 2018, Apple sold more than 217 million iPhones. A consequence of such high demand and supply of electronic products is electronic waste (e-waste) which, in 2018 amounted to 50 million tonnes. E-waste is projected to grow annually 3-5% which is three times more than other waste streams. Reports on recycling rates vary, with estimates of around 20–30%. It is estimated that more than 70% of globally produced waste electronics and electrical equipment (WEEE) enter China, Africa and India for reprocessing, much of it illegally, and often using crude, hazardous and inefficient processes. Dumping and incinerating large amounts of WEEE has a severe impact on human life and the environment, as it leads to the release of toxic heavy elements such as lead, mercury, chromium, nickel, beryllium, arsenic and antimony into the air, soil and water cycles.

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