WEEE Booming for sustainable recycling 2016 Waste Management

The increasing production of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) has led to the rapid growth of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), which significantly contributes to municipal solid waste and raises environmental concerns due to its hazardous components. This editorial discusses the critical importance of recycling metals from WEEE, especially as primary resources become depleted. The objective is to highlight the trends in the generation of WEEE and the need for sustainable recycling practices. The analysis encompasses statistical data showing the rise in WEEE generation worldwide and its classification as a critical waste stream, particularly in Europe, where the amount of WEEE has increased significantly over the past years. Furthermore, the editorial details the growing academic and public awareness surrounding WEEE, illustrated by the increasing number of research articles addressing its treatment and management. Results indicate that articles related to WEEE increased from 103 in 2001 to 781 in 2015, reflecting increased concern and research efforts in this domain. The findings suggest a burgeoning field focused on the sustainable recycling of WEEE and the recovery of precious and rare earth metals, emphasizing the need for innovative and effective recycling technologies.