Electronic waste (e-waste) poses a significant threat to Thailand's environment and human health, as highlighted by IPEN`s study focused on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) near e-waste processing facilities. The research, conducted in Chachoengsao province and Prachinburi province, targeted POPs used in electronic equipment and plastic, including brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs). The study revealed contamination with POPs in soils, sediments, dust, and free-range duck eggs, with the highest levels near the Supcharoen Recycle Co. Ltd. factory in Nong Khok. This contamination, linked to the dismantling and incineration of e-waste, particularly affected the food chain, evidenced by elevated POPs levels in duck eggs. Additionally, the dumping of industrial sludge contributed to serious contamination with SCCPs. The study emphasizes the urgency of addressing e-waste processing practices to mitigate environmental and health risks, urging a shift towards sustainable waste management and recycling practices.

With diverse perspectives shedding light on the global and local dimensions of e-waste, one might ponder: How can we collectively address these challenges and strive towards sustainable solutions for the electronic waste predicament?