The world is producing e-waste at a rapid pace, and while many are oblivious to the importance of effective e-waste management, a 15-year-old Mumbaikar is working silently to make a change.
Nishant Jain, a resident of Ghatkopar, collects used batteries from schools, housing societies and private companies in order to recycle them and consequently, reduce the dire impact their improper disposal has on the environment.
The Deonar dumping ground fire from 2015 caused havoc in Mumbai. Nishant was among the many who bore the brunt of the terrible air quality in the city. For months after the blaze, Nishant suffered from bronchitis.
Having seen the negative effects of the mismanaged waste first hand, Nishant decided to collect all types of used batteries and send them to a private recycling company in Bhiwandi.
E-waste includes discarded electronic gadgets and other electrical devices which contain hazardous materials – which is harmful to human, animal and plant life. Informal processing of e-waste can lead to adverse health effects and environmental pollution.
Used batteries at landfills contaminate the soil, surface water and the chemicals from them have a lasting effect as they seep into the sea.
As of today, Nishant has helped recycle more than 350 kg of such toxic batteries and has brought about awareness by helping 17 schools, five buildings from a housing society, and a private company get rid of their battery waste.
The teenager told Hindustan Times that it took a while to bring the students and teachers on board with his campaign.
It took less time to convince students as they understood the importance of such a drive. Slowly, the teachers too, began bringing their used batteries and before I knew it I had collected 100 kg of batteries.Nishant Jain
Nishant also won the support of the Children’s Movement For Civic Awareness, an NGO that helped him connect with more than 13 schools.
“My students actually brought over 8kg of batteries for recycling,” said Father Mathew Pinto, principal, St John the Baptist High School, Thane, told the Hindustan Times.
Despite having his board exams, he is passionate about his dream.Father Mathew Pinto, principal, St John the Baptist High School
Last year, Nishant presented his battery recycling plan to the municipal corporation’s solid waste management department. His efforts led the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to start consulting experts for an elaborate plan to initiate a city-wide drive for the same.
(Source: Hindustan Times)
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