A STUDY ON HOUSEHOLD PRACTICES IN E-WASTE

MANAGEMENT IN TAMBARAM

PROJECT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE

BACHELOR OF ARTS
IN
ECONOMICS
BY
AISWARYA REGI
REG NO. 2101711018001

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS MADRAS CHRISTIAN

COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) UGC- COLLEGE WITH
POTENTIAL FOR EXCELLENCE TAMBARAM, CHENNAI-
600059 APRIL 2024

1
 CERTIFICATE FROM THE SUPERVISOR

This is to certify that the dissertation titled “A Study On Household Practices In E-waste
Management In Tambaram” is the record of research work carried out by Miss. Aiswarya
Regi, a full-time student of B.A. Economics degree course during 2021- 2024. This is an entirely
independent work done by the candidate under our supervision and guidance.

Signature of Supervisor
(Dr. S Adeline)

Place: Tambaram
Date :

2
 DECLARATION BY THE CANDIDATE

I declare that the project entitled “A Study On Household Practices In E-waste Management
In Tambaram”, submitted by me for the Degree of Bachelor of Arts in Economics is the record
of research work carried out by me during the period 2021- 2024 under the guidance of Dr. S
ADELINE, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Madras Christian College and has
not form the basis of award of any Degree, Diploma, Associate ship, Fellowship titles in this or
any other university or other similar institution of higher learning.

Place: Tambaram Signature of the Candidate

Date : (AISWARYA REGI)

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the spirit of heartfelt appreciation, I offer my sincerest thanks to the Divine for granting me
the strength and wisdom to accomplish this project. My journey wouldn't have been as fulfilling
without the invaluable guidance, unwavering support, and endless encouragement bestowed
upon me by the esteemed Associate Professor Dr. S Adeline. Their mentorship has been an
indispensable compass navigating me through the intricacies of this endeavor.

I am deeply grateful to the esteemed faculty members of the esteemed Department of Economics
at Madras Christian College. Their collective wisdom, dedication, and encouragement have been
instrumental in shaping my academic journey and enhancing my understanding of the subject
matter.

To my cherished family and friends, I extend my profound gratitude for being my pillars of
strength throughout this odyssey. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and understanding
have been the bedrock upon which I've built my accomplishments.

In expressing my gratitude, I also acknowledge the countless individuals whose contributions

may not be explicitly mentioned but have nonetheless played a significant role in my journey. To
each of you, I extend my heartfelt thanks.

May this expression of gratitude serve as a testament to the profound impact your collective
support has had on my personal and academic growth.

AISWARYA REGI

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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SL.NO TITLE PAGE NO.

1. List of tables 6

2. List of figures 7

3. Abstract 8

4. Introduction 9

5. Review of literature 13

6. Analysis 16

7. Conclusion 27

8. Bibliography 29

9. Annexure 31

LIST OF TABLES

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TABLE NO. TITLE OF TABLE PAGE NO.

1. Demographics 16

LIST OF FIGURES

6
 FIGURE TITLE OF THE FIGURE PAGE NO.
NUMBER
1. Monthly household income 16

2. Households that have electronic items 17

that are not in use

3. Disposal of electronic devices that are 18

not in use

4. Number of times households replace 19

the electronic devices

5. Environmental impact of disposing 20

electronic waste

6. Factors influencing disposal of 21

electronic waste

7. Electronic waste recycling programs 22

8. Willingness to make changes in 23

electronic waste disposal habits

9. Participation in electronic waste 24

recycling initiatives or events

10. Education about electronic waste 25

management

11. Willingness to pay fee for electronic 26

waste recycling services or events

ABSTRACT

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 Employing a robust mixed-methods approach incorporating surveys, interviews, and
observational studies, this research endeavors to unveil the prevailing trends, attitudes, and
behaviors of Tambaram residents towards the disposal and recycling of electronic gadgets.
Furthermore, the study delves into the awareness levels regarding e-waste hazards and extant
disposal mechanisms among the populace.By meticulously analyzing data pertaining to disposal
habits, recycling engagement, and knowledge lacunae, this study aspires to offer profound
insights into the hurdles and prospects for enhancing e-waste management practices at the
household level. The resultant findings are poised to empower policymakers, urban planners, and
environmental organizations in crafting tailored interventions and educational initiatives aimed at
fostering responsible e-waste handling practices among Tambaram residents.Ultimately, this
research endeavors to catalyze sustainable waste management initiatives and environmental
conservation endeavors in the region, thereby nurturing a culture of conscientious stewardship
and resilience against the burgeoning e-waste predicament.

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
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 In the age of rapid technological advancement and pervasive consumerism, electronic
waste (e-waste) has emerged as a critical environmental and public health issue. As society
becomes increasingly reliant on electronic devices for communication, entertainment, and
productivity, the disposal of obsolete or unwanted electronics has reached alarming proportions.
E-waste encompasses a vast array of electronic products, including computers, smartphones,
televisions, and household appliances, which contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury,
cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. Effectively managing e-waste has become
imperative to mitigate its adverse impacts on the environment, human health, and the economy.

The exponential growth of e-waste can be attributed to several factors, including the rapid pace
of technological innovation, planned obsolescence by manufacturers, and the increasing
affordability of electronic devices. As a result, the lifespan of electronics has significantly
shortened, leading to a constant influx of discarded gadgets. Moreover, improper disposal
practices, such as dumping e-waste in landfills or incinerating it, exacerbate environmental
pollution and pose significant health risks to communities living in proximity to these disposal
sites.

One of the primary concerns associated with e-waste is its environmental impact. Electronic
devices contain a myriad of toxic substances that can leach into the soil and water, contaminating
ecosystems and jeopardizing biodiversity. For instance, heavy metals like lead and mercury can
persist in the environment for years, causing soil degradation and water pollution. Additionally,
the improper incineration of e-waste releases harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

Furthermore, the mishandling of e-waste poses serious health risks to both humans and animals.
Informal recycling operations, prevalent in many developing countries, often involve
rudimentary methods like open burning or acid stripping, exposing workers to toxic fumes and
hazardous substances. These practices result in respiratory ailments, neurological disorders, and
other chronic health conditions among individuals working in e-waste recycling facilities.
Moreover, pollutants from e-waste can enter the food chain through contaminated water and soil,
posing long-term health threats to populations residing in affected areas.

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In addition to its environmental and health implications, e-waste management presents
significant economic challenges. While electronic devices contain valuable materials like gold,
silver, and copper, the inefficient extraction and recycling of these resources result in substantial
economic losses. Moreover, the disposal and treatment of e-waste impose financial burdens on
governments and municipalities, as they grapple with the costs of waste management
infrastructure and environmental remediation efforts.

India, amid its rapid infrastructural developments and increasing digital penetration, grapples
with mounting E-waste issues. Tambaram, a bustling suburban locality in the southern part of
Chennai, is not exempt from this dilemma. Despite the surge in electronic consumption,
Tambaram lacks a dedicated e-waste recycling unit, exacerbating the challenges associated with
managing electronic waste effectively.

1.1 The significance of a study

The significance of the study on household practices in e-waste management in Tambaram lies in
its potential to inform policy-making, raise awareness, and facilitate sustainable practices in
handling electronic waste (e-waste), addressing a critical environmental and public health
concern. Tambaram, like many urban areas, faces challenges in effectively managing e-waste due
to the rapid proliferation of electronic devices and inadequate infrastructure for their disposal and
recycling. Understanding household practices in e-waste management can provide insights into
current behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge gaps among residents, allowing for tailored
interventions to promote responsible e-waste disposal, recycling, and reuse. By identifying
barriers to proper e-waste management at the household level, such as lack of awareness,
accessibility to recycling facilities, or incentives for participation, this study can pave the way for
targeted educational campaigns, infrastructure development, and policy interventions aimed at
mitigating the adverse environmental and health impacts associated with improper e-waste
disposal. Moreover, by engaging residents in the process, this study can foster community
involvement and ownership in sustainable waste management initiatives, ultimately contributing
to the conservation of resources, reduction of pollution, and promotion of a circular economy
model where valuable materials are recovered and reused, thus ensuring the long-term
environmental sustainability and well-being of Tambaram and its inhabitants.

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1.2 Statement of the Problem

The absence of a structured e-waste management system in Tambaram poses significant

challenges as electronic waste continues to accumulate at an alarming rate. Without proper
infrastructure in place, the disposal of electronic devices becomes a pressing concern. The lack
of awareness among household consumers exacerbates this issue, as many are unaware of the
proper methods for e-waste disposal. Consequently, indiscriminate dumping or inappropriate
handling of electronic devices becomes commonplace, further contributing to environmental
degradation and health hazards. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach.
Firstly, there is a critical need to raise awareness among household consumers about the
importance of proper e-waste disposal practices. This could involve educational campaigns,
community workshops, and outreach programs to inform residents about the potential
environmental and health impacts of improper disposal. Secondly, efforts must be made to
establish a structured e-waste management system in Tambaram. This includes setting up
collection points or recycling centers where residents can safely dispose of their electronic waste.
Additionally, partnerships with recycling companies or government agencies can help facilitate
the proper handling and recycling of e-waste.By addressing these gaps in awareness, disposal
practices, and infrastructural deficiencies, Tambaram can work towards creating a more
sustainable and environmentally conscious community.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The primary objectives of this study are as follows:

1. To assess the current household practices in E-waste management in Tambaram to

identify areas of improvement.

2. To analyze the level of awareness on e-waste disposal within households in Tambaram.

3. To propose sustainable strategies and guidelines for households in Tambaram to

responsibly manage and dispose of E-waste.

1.4 Methodology

To effectively accomplish the stated objectives, a mixed-method approach will be adopted,

utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data collection will involve the

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distribution of questionnaires among residents of Tambaram, enabling direct insight into their
perspectives, experiences, and opinions. This method offers a firsthand understanding of the
community's viewpoints, allowing for a more nuanced analysis of the subject matter. Meanwhile,
secondary data will be gathered from diverse sources such as journals, newspapers, books, and
reputable websites. This approach ensures a comprehensive examination by incorporating
existing research findings, historical context, and expert opinions. Following the collection of
primary and secondary data from residents of Tambaram and diverse sources respectively, the
analysis process employs simple statistical tools such as percentages to distill insights. These
tools allow for a straightforward examination of the gathered data, aiding in the identification of
prevalent trends, patterns, and preferences within the community.

1.5 Location

The study focuses on Tambaram, a suburban locality situated in the southern part of Chennai,
India. Tambaram serves as an ideal location for this research due to its demographic diversity
and burgeoning electronic consumption, thereby presenting a microcosm of the broader e-waste
management challenges faced by urban and semi-urban areas in India.

1.6 Limitations While random sampling is a widely recognized method for achieving
representativeness in research, its implementation in this study is constrained by several factors.
Primarily, time limitations may restrict the extent to which a truly random sample can be
obtained, potentially resulting in a less comprehensive representation of the target population.
Moreover, resource constraints may impede the ability to reach certain demographic groups,
introducing sampling bias and limiting the generalizability of findings. Despite efforts to mitigate
these constraints, the study acknowledges the possibility of respondent bias and recognizes that
these limitations may influence the accuracy and reliability of the results.

CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The literature on electronic waste (e-waste) management highlights various strategies and
challenges in mitigating its environmental and health impacts.

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Jalal Uddin (2012) emphasizes the importance of Extended Producer Responsibility (ERP) and
the adoption of environmentally friendly substitutes for hazardous substances to mitigate the
impacts of e-waste. Legal frameworks such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) are
crucial for enforcing EPR. Additionally, encouraging manufacturers to set goals for waste
reduction and implementing buy-back programs for old electronic products can contribute to
environmentally sound management.

Vijay N. Bhoi et al. (2014) underscore the inherent dangers of e-waste, emphasizing the need for
product design to minimize waste generation and maximize end-of-life utilization. They argue
for shared responsibility among manufacturers, retailers, users, and disposers to reduce
environmental impacts.

Kuehr and Williams (2003) highlight the growing market for reused PCs in developing countries
and the role of charitable organizations in providing refurbished computers to organizations.
Reuse not only makes technology more affordable but also reduces the environmental impact by
extending the lifespan of electronic devices.

Ramzy Kahhat et al. (2008) stress the importance of federal regulations in addressing the e-waste
situation comprehensively. They advocate for policies that motivate collection, recycling, and
reuse, such as e-Market for returned deposit systems.

Peeranart Kiddee et al. (2013) propose a multi-faceted approach to e-waste management,

including eco-design, proper collection, recovery, recycling, and awareness-raising efforts. They
highlight the effectiveness of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes in addressing e-
waste problems.

Yamini Gupt & Samraj Sahay (2015) emphasize the financial responsibility of producers and the
importance of regulatory provisions and take-back schemes in successful EPR-based policies.

Sukeshini Jadhav (2013) stresses the importance of efficient e-waste management from sourcing
to disposal, advocating for manufacturer responsibility in designing environmentally friendly
products and implementing take-back programs.

UNEP (2010) predicts a significant increase in e-waste generation, emphasizing the urgency of
effective management strategies to address the growing problem.

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Samarkoon M.B. (2014) highlights the environmental and health risks associated with improper
e-waste handling, advocating for upstream reduction of e-waste generation through green design
and cleaner production.

Xinwen Chi et al. (2010) discuss the challenges of informal e-waste recycling in China and
propose policies to improve recycling rates, working conditions, and the efficiency of informal
players.

Shubham Gupta et al. (2014) address the economic focus of commercial organizations in
developing countries and the need for sustainable e-waste recycling practices.

Sikdar & Vaniya (2014) suggest integrating e-waste management topics into environmental
education to promote awareness and responsible behavior.

Binegde et al. (2015) highlight the role of repair shops in extending the lifespan of electronic
goods and advocate for formal recycling to achieve sustainable development.

Norazli Othman (2015) emphasizes the importance of a sustainable integrated technique in

managing e-waste, considering its lifecycle from production to disposal, and the implementation
of new legislation and acts to develop human capital in managing electronic waste.

Hassan Taghipour et al. (2012) propose a policy framework combining Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR) with training programs and strict supervision of e-waste collection and
recycling activities.

Smith (2019) states that e-waste comprises discarded electronic devices such as smartphones,
computers, and televisions. Rapid technological advancements and frequent upgrades contribute
to the high generation of e-waste in households. According to recent studies by Jones et al.
(2020), households are one of the primary sources of e-waste, accounting for a significant
proportion of the total electronic waste generated annually.

Johnson (2021) emphasizes several strategies proposed to improve e-waste management in

households. Education and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in encouraging responsible
disposal practices among consumers. Additionally, the implementation of convenient e-waste
collection and recycling programs, as suggested by White et al. (2023), can facilitate proper
disposal and recycling of electronic devices.

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Garcia et al. (2022) highlight how technological advancements have contributed to improving e-
waste management in households. For instance, the development of mobile applications that
provide information on nearby e-waste collection points has made it easier for individuals to
dispose of their electronic devices responsibly. Furthermore, Lee & Kim (2020) point out that
innovative recycling technologies enable the extraction of valuable materials from electronic
waste, reducing the need for raw materials and minimizing environmental impact.

Government policies and regulations, as emphasized by Smith & Johnson (2019), play a crucial
role in promoting sustainable e-waste management practices. Many countries have implemented
extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, which hold manufacturers accountable for the
disposal and recycling of their products. Additionally, legislation prohibiting the export of e-
waste to developing countries, as discussed by Taylor (2021), has been enacted to prevent
environmental pollution and health hazards.

Brown & Green (2018) highlight that effective e-waste management in households faces various
challenges, including lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and improper disposal
practices. Many households dispose of their electronic devices inappropriately, either by
throwing them in the trash or storing them indefinitely. This behavior exacerbates the
environmental and health risks associated with e-waste.

Overall, the literature underscores the urgency of implementing comprehensive strategies,

including regulatory frameworks, producer responsibility schemes, and public awareness
initiatives, to effectively manage the growing problem of e-waste.

CHAPTER III

ANALYSIS
The study's analysis is based on information gathered from a questionnaire that was given to 60
individuals. The sample includes individuals of various age groups from the locality. The data
gathered from the questionnaire served as the foundation for the inferences and observations
made.
Demographics:

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 Factor Value No. of respondents

Gender Female 37

Male 23

Total no. of respondents 60

The table shows the demographics of the respondents of the survey. Information from the table
can be used to make observations and conclusions. The survey conducted include both females
and males. As information from both genders are relevant for the study. Participation of female
respondents were higher. Out of 60 respondents, 37 were female and 23 were male.
Income of the household:

In the study on household e-waste management, income emerges as a pivotal factor influencing
consumer behavior. With over 40 respondents reporting incomes exceeding 25000, it becomes
evident that a substantial portion of households falls into the higher income bracket, indicating
potential purchasing power for electronic items. Moreover, the finding that approximately 39%
of households boast monthly incomes surpassing 50000 underscores a significant segment with
considerable disposable income, likely driving demand for electronic goods. Conversely, the
revelation that only 8 respondents have incomes below 10000 highlights a smaller demographic
with limited purchasing capacity, potentially facing barriers to electronic consumption. These
insights not only emphasize the correlation between income and electronic purchasing behavior

16
but also underscore the importance of understanding socioeconomic factors in devising effective
e-waste management strategies tailored to diverse household demographics.

Households that have electronic items that are not in use:

Effective household e-waste management is crucial given the prevalence of unused electronic
items in more than half of households, with approximately 63% reported to possess such items.
Despite this, only 22 households claim not to have any unused electronics. Addressing this issue
necessitates proactive measures such as promoting electronic recycling programs, facilitating
convenient disposal options, and raising awareness about the environmental impact of
improperly discarded electronics. Implementing educational initiatives to inform households
about the importance of responsibly managing electronic waste can encourage proper disposal
practices and mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with e-waste accumulation.
Collaborative efforts between governments, businesses, and communities are essential to
establish comprehensive e-waste management systems that promote sustainability and minimize
electronic waste's adverse effects on the environment and human health.

Disposal of electronic devices that are not in use:

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Most households tend to keep their unused electronic items at home, with 20 out of the surveyed
individuals opting for this approach. However, a significant portion, 13 respondents, admitted to
disposing of their electronic devices by throwing them away with regular household waste. On
the other hand, 16 respondents indicated a preference for recycling their electronic items through
designated e-waste recycling programs. A smaller percentage mentioned donating their
electronics to charity or passing them on to others. A minority of respondents mentioned
exchanging them, keeping them until they become outdated, or selling them as scrap. The
frequency of electronic disposal varied, with most respondents disposing of them only once
every few years, while only a few admitted to doing so frequently.

Number of times households replace the electronic devices:

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The majority of individuals tend to replace electronic items infrequently, typically only when the
device ceases to function properly, as indicated by 40 out of the surveyed respondents. About 16
respondents reported replacing electronic items within a span of 2 to 5 years, suggesting a
slightly more proactive approach to upgrading technology. However, a minority of respondents
adopt a more frequent replacement pattern, with only a small percentage opting to replace
electronic items annually. This trend underscores a widespread tendency among consumers to
maximize the lifespan of their electronic devices, potentially driven by factors such as cost
considerations, environmental awareness, and the perceived durability of modern technology.

Environmental impact of disposing electronic waste:

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According to a recent survey, a significant majority of respondents, comprising more than half,
express concern about the environmental repercussions of improperly disposing of electronic
waste. This highlights a growing awareness among individuals regarding the detrimental effects
of electronic waste on the environment. However, the study also reveals a concerning trend, with
9 respondents indicating a lack of consideration for these impacts, suggesting a portion of the
population remains indifferent or uninformed about the environmental consequences of their
actions. Additionally, approximately 27% of respondents appear uncertain about whether they
are considering the impact or not, indicating a potential need for further education and awareness
campaigns to elucidate the importance of responsible electronic waste disposal practices. This
underscores the necessity for continued efforts to promote environmental consciousness and
foster responsible behaviors to mitigate the harmful effects of electronic waste on our planet.

Factors influencing disposal of electronic waste:

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The disposal of electronic waste is influenced by several key factors, with the availability of
recycling options and convenience standing out as primary considerations for respondents.
Approximately 42% of respondents also cite environmental concerns and knowledge of proper
disposal methods as influential factors, indicating a growing awareness of the ecological impact
of electronic waste and the importance of responsible disposal practices. Moreover, cost-
effectiveness emerges as another significant factor shaping disposal decisions, highlighting the
economic considerations that individuals weigh when deciding how to dispose of their electronic
devices. Together, these factors underscore the complex interplay of environmental
consciousness, convenience, and economic pragmatism that guide individuals' choices regarding
electronic waste disposal.

Electronic waste recycling programs:

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The lack of adequate information surrounding the proper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste)
remains a significant concern, as revealed by a recent survey. Approximately 27% of respondents
expressed uncertainty regarding the availability of sufficient information to guide them in proper
e-waste disposal methods. Alarmingly, half of the participants indicated a complete lack of
familiarity with electronic waste recycling programs or facilities in their vicinity, suggesting a
glaring gap in awareness and accessibility. Moreover, 18 respondents reported a neutral level of
familiarity, indicating some awareness but insufficient knowledge about local recycling
initiatives. Conversely, a mere 20% of individuals claimed to be very familiar with electronic
waste recycling programs in their locality, highlighting the stark disparity in awareness levels.
This underscores the pressing need for enhanced education and accessibility to foster responsible
e-waste management practices within communities.

Willingness to make changes in electronic waste disposal habits:

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In a recent survey, it was found that over 70% of respondents expressed a willingness to modify
their electronic waste disposal habits if it contributes to mitigating environmental impacts.
Specifically, 11 respondents indicated a readiness to alter their disposal methods for electronic
waste items with the aim of lessening their environmental footprint. This significant majority
underscores a growing awareness and concern among individuals regarding the environmental
consequences of improper electronic waste disposal. It suggests a potential shift towards more
responsible and sustainable practices in managing electronic waste, driven by an understanding
of the broader environmental implications and a desire to enact positive change. These findings
highlight the potential for meaningful action at the individual level to contribute to larger-scale
efforts aimed at reducing environmental harm.

Participation in electronic waste recycling initiatives or events:

23
In a recent survey of 60 respondents, it was found that a substantial majority, constituting 80%,
had not engaged in any waste recycling initiatives or events. Conversely, only a small fraction,
comprising merely 20% of the respondents, had participated in such activities. Specifically, out
of the total respondents, only 12 individuals had taken part in electronic waste recycling
initiatives or events, indicating a considerably low involvement in this particular aspect of
recycling. However, a more encouraging statistic emerged concerning general waste recycling
initiatives or events, with 48 respondents having participated. These findings underscore a
significant gap between the awareness of recycling practices and actual participation, suggesting
a potential area for increased education and outreach efforts to promote sustainable waste
management practices among the surveyed population.

Education about electronic waste management:

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A concerning trend emerges from recent surveys regarding electronic waste management,
indicating that a majority of respondents have not been adequately informed or educated on the
subject by local authorities, schools, or organizations. Shockingly, more than half of the
respondents fall into this category, highlighting a significant gap in awareness and understanding
of the issue. However, amidst this deficiency, there is a glimmer of hope as a notable portion of
respondents, comprising 29 individuals, have received information or education about electronic
waste management from such sources. While this proportion may not be overwhelmingly large,
it suggests that efforts to disseminate knowledge on responsible e-waste disposal are being made,
albeit perhaps not on a broad enough scale. The findings underscore the urgent need for
increased educational initiatives and awareness campaigns to address this pressing environmental
concern effectively.

Willingness to pay fee for electronic waste recycling services or events:

25
In a survey, approximately 58% of respondents indicated that their decision to pay for electronic
waste recycling services hinges on the fee charged and the quality of services provided. This
suggests that a significant portion of the population is sensitive to both cost and the value
proposition offered by recycling programs. Meanwhile, 12 respondents expressed complete
unwillingness to pay any fee for such services or events, indicating a potential barrier to adoption
for a segment of the population. Conversely, 13 respondents showed a willingness to pay a
nominal fee regardless of the amount charged or the specific services provided, suggesting a
degree of intrinsic motivation or environmental consciousness among this group. These findings
highlight the complex interplay between cost, perceived value, and individual attitudes toward
electronic waste recycling, underscoring the need for diverse strategies to promote sustainable e-
waste management practices.

CHAPTER IV
CONCLUSION

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Based on the analysis of the survey data regarding electronic waste disposal habits and attitudes
towards recycling, several conclusions can be drawn:

1. Gender Participation Discrepancy: Female respondents participated more actively in the

survey compared to male respondents, indicating potential variations in interest or
awareness of electronic waste management between genders.

2. Income Influence: Household income plays a significant role in electronic waste disposal
practices. Higher-income households tend to have more electronic devices and are more
likely to dispose of them properly through recycling programs.

3. Presence of Unused Electronic Items: A majority of households have electronic items that
are no longer in use, highlighting the importance of proper disposal methods to prevent
environmental harm.

4. Disposal Practices: Most households keep unused electronic items at home, while a
significant portion opt for recycling through designated programs. However, a small
percentage still dispose of electronic waste improperly, indicating the need for increased
awareness and accessibility of recycling options.

5. Frequency of Replacement: Electronic devices are typically replaced infrequently, often

only when they cease to function. This suggests a potential opportunity to promote longer
product lifespans and reduce electronic waste generation.

6. Environmental Considerations: A substantial portion of respondents are aware of the

environmental impact of improper electronic waste disposal, indicating a willingness to
make changes to their disposal habits to reduce environmental harm.

7. Factors Influencing Disposal Decisions: Availability of recycling options, convenience,

environmental concerns, knowledge of proper disposal methods, and cost-effectiveness
are key factors influencing disposal decisions.

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 8. Lack of Awareness about Recycling Programs: Despite the importance of recycling,
many respondents lack familiarity with electronic waste recycling programs in their area,
highlighting the need for increased education and promotion of recycling initiatives.

9. Willingness to Change Habits: The majority of respondents are willing to change their
electronic waste disposal habits to reduce environmental impact, indicating potential
receptiveness to educational campaigns or policy interventions.

10. Low Participation in Recycling Initiatives: Despite willingness to change habits, actual
participation in electronic waste recycling initiatives or events remains low, suggesting a
gap between intention and action that may be addressed through improved accessibility
or incentives.

11. Education Gap: There is a significant portion of respondents who have not received
education or information about electronic waste management, indicating a need for
enhanced outreach efforts from local authorities, schools, and organizations.

12. Willingness to Pay for Recycling Services: While a majority of respondents consider
factors such as fee and service quality before deciding to pay for electronic waste
recycling services, there is still a notable willingness among some to pay, suggesting
potential support for fee-based recycling programs.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights both challenges and opportunities in electronic waste
management. Addressing gaps in awareness, accessibility, and education, while leveraging
factors such as environmental concerns and willingness to pay for recycling services, can
contribute to more sustainable electronic waste disposal practices and reduce the environmental
impact of electronic waste.

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ANNEXURE
QUESTIONNAIRE
30
1. Name

2. Age

3. Gender
a. Male
b. Female
c. Other:

4. Household income
a. Below 10,000
b. 10,000-25,000
c. 25,000-50,000
d. Above 50,000

5. Do you have any electronic devices at home that you no longer use or need?
a. Yes
b. No

6. How do you typically dispose of electronic devices that you no longer use?
a. Donate them to charity or give them to someone else
b. Recycle them through a designated electronic waste recycling program
c. Throw them away with regular household waste
d. Keep them in home
e. Other:

7. How often do you replace your electronic devices (eg: smartphones, laptops, TVs etc)
a. Every year
b. Every 2-3 years
c. Every 4-5 years
d. Rarely /Once they stop working

8. How often do you dispose of electronic waste from your household

a. Frequently (more than once a year)
b. Occasionally (once a year or less)
c. Rarely (once every few years)
d. Never

31
9. Have you ever considered the environmental impact of disposing of electronic waste
improperly?
a. Yes
b. No
c. Not sure

10. What factors influence your decision on how to dispose of electronic waste?
a. Convenience
b. Environmental concerns
c. Cost effectiveness
d. Knowledge of proper disposal methods
e. Availability of recycling options
f. Other

11. Do you believe there is enough information available to the public about proper
electronic waste disposal methods
a. Yes
b. No
c. Not sure

12. Would you be willing to make changes to your electronic waste disposal habits if it meant
reducing of environmental impact ?
a. Yes
b. No
c. Maybe

13. How familiar are you with electronic waste recycling programs or facilities in your area?
a. Very familiar
b. Not familiar at all
c. Neutral

14. Have you ever participated in any electronic waste recycling initiatives or events?
a. Yes
b. No

15. Have you ever received information or education about electronic waste management
from local authorities, schools or organizations
a. Yes
b. No

16. Would you be willing to pay a small fee for electronic waste recycling services or events?
32
a. Yes
b. No
c. Depends on the fee and service provided

33