Sustainable waste electrical and electronic equipment management guide in emerging economies context: A structural model approach

Abstract

With globalization and the rapid advancement of information technology, waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management has become a significant concern among electronic manufacturers. It motivated researchers to identify barriers and enablers of sustainable WEEE management. However, existing literature could not capture multi-stakeholder's perspective while identifying enablers crucial for developing sustainable WEEE management policy, especially in emerging economies. The present study fulfils the gap by considering multi-stakeholder's perspective to identify enablers of sustainable WEEE management in an emerging economy, i.e., India. We identified 23 potential enablers through literature review and discussion with domain experts. Subsequently, the finalized enablers were analyzed to uncover the cause-effect relationship using a hybrid grey-based decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. Findings revealed that research and development capabilities and digitization, extended producer responsibility, monitoring of illegal import and dumping, environmental regulations and WEEE policies, and use of green or cleaner technologies for waste recycling were recognized as the most significant causal enablers. The study contributes to the theoretical knowledge by categorizing enablers under different theoretical frameworks. It can also assist policymakers, practitioners, and electronic manufacturers in framing policies related to the circular economy and sustainable WEEE management to meet the sustainable development goals of 2030.