E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, comprising discarded electrical and electronic devices such as small gadgets, household appliances, batteries, and solar panels. These items contain hazardous elements like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into soil and water if improperly disposed of, and exposure to which can cause neurological and other disorders. At the same time, they also contain traces of valuable elements like gold, silver, and platinum that can be recovered and reused, reducing the dependence on mining for virgin resources.
 

In Ladakh, there is no formal system for managing e-waste. E-waste is often mixed with general waste and disposed of. It is also given to waste aggregators, who use unsafe practices to extract elements.