Question

Discuss briefly Defunct ships and e-wastes.

Discuss briefly the following:

Defunt ships and e-wastes

Answer 1

The dismantling of a defunct ship is a technically complex process, which is potentially harmful to the environment & human health. Defunct ships contain toxicants like asbestos, mercury, etc. The workers breaking down the ships are not suitably protected and are exposed to toxic chemicals. The coastal areas in the vicinity of the ship-breaking yard also become polluted. At the international level, it is accepted that there is uncertainty about the relevant controls for the dismantling of such vessels & there is an urgent need to establish a specific enforceable control framework.
Electronic waste comprises irreparable computers and other electronic goods, generated by developed countries.
It is a valuable source of secondary raw materials, if treated properly; however, if not treated properly, it is a major source of toxins. Eventually, recycling is the only solution for treating e-wastes, provided it is carried out in an environmentally friendly manner.

Answer 2

Defunct ships are dead ships that are no longer in use. Such ships are broken down for scrap metal in countries such as India and Pakistan. These ships are a source of various toxicants such as asbestos, lead, mercury, etc. Thus, they contribute to solid wastes that are hazardous to health.

E-wastes or electronic wastes generally include electronic goods such as computers etc. Such wastes are rich in metals such as copper, iron, silicon, gold, etc. These metals are highly toxic and pose serious health hazards. People in developing countries are involved in the recycling process of these metals and, therefore, are exposed to toxic substances present in these wastes.