Electronic waste in emerging countries: current scenario of generation, policies, and recycling technologies regarding the coronavirus pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic severely impacted on society, from medical to waste generation. In the case of electronic waste, it was no different. The behavior change increased the consumption of electronic equipment and will likely change the generation of electronic waste in the following years. Furthermore, the impacts were different in emerging and developed countries. Emerging countries must improve their electronics collection and recycling policies, and even among developed countries, there is much difference. This review article aimed to analyze the differences between developed and emerging countries and the impacts of the pandemic on the generation of electronic waste. An analysis of the public policies of these groups of countries and electronic waste management was carried out, as well as the current approaches of Brazil, India, China, and South Africa for treating their waste. Developed countries' policies and legislation have shown that electronic waste governance is better addressed comprehensively than in emerging economies. The increased consumption of electronic equipment will result in a rise in electronic waste generation in the coming years. Future perspectives show that emerging countries should concentrate efforts on their waste management policies to achieve recycling targets with a focus on circular economy and sustainable development goals. Graphical abstract