Household e-waste management: A comprehensive review

Abstract

The improper handling of domestic e-waste poses serious environmental and health risks. By highlighting the crucial problems and potential solutions, this thorough analysis attempts to synthesize the body of knowledge on managing household e-waste. However, designing sustainable management techniques requires consideration of the collection system, consumer awareness, and policy. Inadequate household e-waste management has led to resource waste, the leakage of dangerous contaminants into ecosystems, and negative health effects on humans and the environment. Using the search engine database SCOPUS, a comprehensive literature review encompassing journal articles spanning the last four years from 2019–2022 was performed. The key themes used in the review, such as collection system, awareness, and policy, were analyzed and synthesized. This review reveals the challenges in managing household e-waste. Collection mechanisms vary widely, with success relying on factors such as awareness campaigns and Deposit-Refund Schemes (DRSs). Collecting processes exhibit significant disparities in efficiency, with potential for improvement through technological advancements, such as smart sorting systems and robotics. Policy frameworks, while present in many regions, often lack comprehensive implementation. To address these challenges effectively, a holistic approach is needed. Implementing comprehensive policy frameworks, raising awareness, and adopting emerging collecting system technologies are crucial steps forward.