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Why Did Phone Chargers Disappear? Cost-Saving or Environmental Concern?
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News18•04-10-2026, 14:59
Why Did Phone Chargers Disappear? Cost-Saving or Environmental Concern?
- •Previously, phones came with chargers, but now only documents are found in smartphone boxes.
- •Companies like Apple and Samsung no longer include power adapters with new phones, only providing charging cables.
- •Companies claim this reduces e-waste and packaging, as most households already own chargers.
- •Nivit Kumar Yadav, from the Centre for Science and Environment, suggests market economics, not just environmental protection, is a major factor.
- •India's e-waste is increasing, with 12.54 lakh tons registered in 2023-24, projected to rise to 13.98 lakh tons in 2024-25.
Key Questions Answered
Companies state that most households already own compatible chargers, and smaller packaging reduces transport emissions to benefit the environment. However, experts note that market economics and cost-cutting also play major roles.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, registered e-waste in India rose from approximately 12.54 lakh tons in 2023-24 to an estimated 13.98 lakh tons in 2024-25, marking an increase of about 11.5 percent.
Under the Extended Producer Responsibility system, companies are held responsible for the collection, recycling, and proper disposal of e-waste, which experts argue should include strengthening take-back schemes for old phones.
