Abstract
Electronic waste is an emerging and fast-growing solid waste stream with complex and varied characteristics. Policymakers, stakeholders and producers globally have developed management systems that seek to enhance environmental performances of all involved in the life cycle management of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) with the aim of ensuring protection of the environment and human health. Unfortunately, despite all these interventions the management of e-waste remains a challenge in most developing countries. The challenges stem from recycling and refurbishment challenges as well as disposal of the e-waste. South Africa is no exception as it has been identified as the fifth largest e-waste generating developing country. The fundamental goal of this study was to examine the management of e-waste by manufacturers through assessing the applicability of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) approach. The main subjects investigated in this study were the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) situated in Gauteng. In view of this, the producers‘ involvement in the management of the end-of- life electronics was explored. To achieve this, the research looked at how the manufacturers managed e-waste through the Extended Producer Responsibility approach taking into account the environmental effectiveness, economic efficiency, political acceptability, administrability and innovative advancement. Information on the organisations take-back schemes was discussed. Furthermore, the thesis provides a basis for a pilot vision into the general e-waste management situation in South Africa. To establish and assess the underlying aspects of EPR for the management of e-waste in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, literature and applied information were used and special focus was paid on end-of-life computers.
The study revealed that even though there are challenges in e-waste management, the relevant stakeholders are willing to work together towards sustainable e-waste management. Policy directions based on the gaps identified in the current e-waste management strategy were recommended. There is need for the implementation of waste management policies and regulations guided by the EPR principles as highlighted in the waste management legislation. The study concluded that there is need for knowledge transfer between developed and developing nations. The knowledge transfer will involve developed nations who have implemented the EPR principle to guide the developing nations in the implementation of the...
M.Sc. (Environmental Management)