American e-waste is causing a 'hidden tsunami' of junk in Southeast Asia

A watchdog group has uncovered a hidden "tsunami" of electronic waste from the US, finding millions of tons are shipped to Asia and the Middle East monthly, as reported by ABC News. The Basel Action Network (BAN) investigated and discovered at least ten US companies exporting e-waste, including phones and computers with toxic metals like lead. Approximately 2,000 containers of e-waste, totaling 33,000 metric tons, are shipped monthly by e-waste brokers who don't recycle the waste. These companies allegedly exported over $1 billion worth of e-waste between 2023 and 2025. Two companies, Semsotai and PPM Recycling, have responded to the accusations, disputing the claims. US e-waste shipments reportedly made up six percent of all US exports to Malaysia during that period. Containers have also been tracked to other Asian countries like Vietnam and the Philippines, and the UAE. Global e-waste is growing rapidly, exceeding recycling program growth. In 2022, 62 million metric tons of electronic waste was produced, with an expected increase to 82 million by 2030. The Basel Convention, an international treaty banning these imports, is not ratified by the US. Consequently, the US, a major e-waste producer, is not bound by this international agreement.