Electronic Waste-Derived Nanomaterials: Environmental Release, Toxicity, and Public Health Risks

The rapid growth of electronic waste (e-waste) has emerged as a significant global environmental challenge, driven by increased consumption of electronic devices and shortened product lifecycles. E-waste contains a complex mixture of metals, polymers, and hazardous substances that, under physical, chemical, and biological processes, can transform into nanoscale materials. These electronic waste-derived nanomaterials are increasingly recognized for their potential environmental mobility, bioavailability, and toxicity. This review critically examines their generation pathways during recycling and environmental weathering, their release into environmental systems, and associated risks to ecosystems and human health. It also highlights current analytical approaches, regulatory challenges, and sustainable mitigation strategies.