Evolving a conceptual framework for sustainable e-waste management: a consumer typology based on environmental behavior

Abstract

PurposeThere is widespread consensus that unchecked growth of e-waste is a major challenge to global sustainability transition. Current research has failed to connect e-waste with principles of circularity and sustainability from the consumption perspective. This paper aims to answer the following questions: What kind of environmental behaviors (EBs) exist among consumers in relation to e-waste?; In what ways are these consumers different from and similar to each other based on their EBs in relation to e-waste?; How do consumers and their EBs contribute to sustainable waste management?Design/methodology/approachBased on primary data from an Indian sample of information and communication technology consumers, EBs relevant to e-waste management are identified. In the next stage, a behavior-based segmentation and profiling of consumers is performed.FindingsThe first phase of analysis produced eight distinct EBs which were then used in the next phase to obtain a consumer typology of three segments. The three consumer segments differed significantly with each other on general environmental behavior and awareness about e-waste.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper develops a comprehensive conceptual framework for studying the demand-side circularity transition for sustainable e-waste management.Practical implicationsFor business stakeholders, findings of the study and the proposed framework can inform behavior change interventions to customize offerings for different right consumer segments.Originality/valueThe paper adds new knowledge to the intersectional area of e-waste, consumer behavior and sustainability through the development of consumer typology and a conceptual framework.