E-Waste

E-waste, or electronic waste, encompasses discarded computers, servers, data storage devices, and other IT equipment that organizations must manage responsibly at end-of-life. In AI governance contexts, e-waste becomes critical because AI systems rely on energy-intensive hardware like GPUs and specialized processors that generate significant electronic waste streams. Enterprises must establish compliant data destruction, recycling, and environmental management protocols to address both regulatory requirements around data security and emerging sustainability mandates affecting their AI infrastructure.

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ResearchGlobal2026-09-16

AI E-Waste Could Hit 617 Million Metric Tons by 2050, Basel Action Network Warns

The Basel Action Network has published research estimating that AI-related e-waste could reach between 395 and 617 million metric tons by 2050. The projection accounts for the full data center hardware stack, not just servers and GPUs. Less than a quarter of current global e-waste enters formal recycling, leaving the rest in informal and often toxic disposal chains.

e-waste environmental risk ESG compliance data center sustainability Basel Convention supply chain Scope 3 emissions