In this Global Review on Safer End of Engineered Life, we take a long overdue and systematic look at the scientific evidence around waste and resources management and the impact on human health and life. Surprisingly, this research appears to be the first of its kind anywhere in the world. We offer suggestions for immediate corrective action that should be taken and identify where engineering solutions could mitigate and prevent harm to human life and health. We also suggest where further research is required into the nature and magnitude of the problem