Ecopure E-Waste Collection System: Practical Approaches to Elevate Awareness and Sustainable Disposal in Educational Institutions

The quick development of the technology has made life much better for humans, but it has also resulted in the collection and disposal of electronic waste, or “e-waste”, which poses serious risks to human health and the environment. This study examines higher secondary students understanding and knowledge of e-waste collection and disposal in rural government schools in the Tumkur region of Karnataka, India. The study uses a well-structured questionnaire to examine seven crucial aspects of e-waste: generation, disposal, collection, component types, progressive usage, control and training. The research aims to evaluate student's awareness about e-waste disposal and collection methods, identify knowledge gaps, and provide suggestions for developing e-waste collection and disposal awareness through education programs. It also promotes an idea for e-waste collection practices in Indian educational institutions. The survey was conducted with 272 students aged 13–15, studying in grades 8<sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">th</sup>, 9<sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">th</sup>and 10<sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">th</sup> from four rural schools, reveals that the percentage of electronic device ownership, awareness of proper e-waste disposal and its environmental impact is significantly lacking. The findings highlight the necessity for enhanced educational initiatives and infrastructure improvements to address e-waste collection challenges. By integrating advanced technologies, the proposed system seeks to educate students on proper e-waste disposal methods, increase community awareness, and establish effective e-waste collection and disposal practices in rural areas, ultimately promoting environmental sustainability.