While the proper handling of our e‑waste could have been a story of opportunity, it is unfortunate that, as things currently stand, it is the all-too-familiar story of neglect.

Globally, e‑waste is being transformed into wealth. Gold, copper, and rare earth elements are extracted and fed back into production chains. Bangladesh, too, could turn this liability into an asset.

However, it is shocking how 97% of discarded electronics are processed informally; industry stakeholders estimate that trading in just obsolete or defective electronic equipment amounts to about Tk500 crore per month, although much of this trade remains outside official monitoring and documentation systems. 

Not only does this mean exposing thousands of workers and communities to toxic substances, but in doing so, we are also forfeiting the chance to build a modern recycling industry.

This failure to not only protect thousands of Bangladeshis but also the inability to recognize the economic potential of what is currently toxic waste starts with governance. There is no coherent framework present to regulate e‑waste, nor are there any incentives in place for safer recycling. 

In addition, that there are no penalties for hazardous disposal emboldens indiscriminate dumping and dismantling of electronics with impunity. 

The failure to act goes beyond neglect at this stage. Moving forward, establishing clear rules, building collection systems, and investing in facilities that can recover valuables from our e-waste will go a long way to help turn around this crisis.

We can simply not let toxic neglect poison our people, especially as we have the opportunity to turn this waste into wealth. Bangladesh cannot afford delay. It is time to ensure that e‑waste becomes part of the solution and not yet another crisis we eventually can no longer contain.