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E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices and components. This includes consumer electronics such as smartphones, computers, televisions, and household appliances, as well as batteries, cables, and other related parts. E-waste arises from end-of-life products and from devices that are broken, obsolete, or replaced with newer models.

E-waste is diverse in composition. Many items contain plastics, glass, and metals, including valuable materials such as copper, aluminum, gold, and rare earth elements. They can also contain hazardous substances like lead, cadmium, mercury, and brominated flame retardants. The mix of materials requires careful handling to prevent environmental release and health risks during collection, transport, and processing.

Improper disposal of e-waste can lead to soil and water contamination and air pollution, especially when devices are burned or dismantled informally without proper controls. This poses risks to workers and local communities. Proper management seeks to minimize environmental impact, protect human health, and recover valuable materials.

Management of e-waste typically involves separate collection streams and specialized recycling facilities. Regulations such as the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive and related producer-responsibility schemes guide collection and recycling in the European Union. RoHS rules limit certain hazardous substances. In many countries, including Denmark, producers are responsible for end-of-life management, and consumers are encouraged to return devices to approved collection points or retailers.

Best practices emphasize reducing, reusing, and repairing devices before recycling. Data must be wiped or destroyed before disposal, and devices should be delivered to authorized recyclers to ensure safe material recovery and hazardous substance handling.