Abstract

Electronic waste commonly known as e-waste is among the fastest growing waste streams and has remained both a local and a global problem. Consequently, efficient management of e-waste has become a concern due to increasing urbanization, population growth and early obsolescence of electrical and electronic equipment. In Australia alone, it is estimated that more than 44 million tons of e-waste mainly from computers, laptops, television and mobile phones will be disposed of by 2028. This creates enormous environmental and health risks due to inappropriate recycling and disposal practices. This warrants the need to develop innovative approaches to address e-waste collection and recycling practices using technological innovations such as blockchain technology. Blockchain technology has the potential to substitute the slow manual processes used in e-waste management through creating digital asset token (e.g. security token) associated with e-waste tracking and tracing, and preventing e-waste ending up in landfills. This study aims to examine how blockchain technology can be used in the automation of processes for achieving sustainable e-waste management practices in Australia. The detailed processes involved in the implementation of blockchain technology for tracing, tracking and transparent e-waste management is examined. This study adopts a qualitative research method and employs semi-structured interviews of managers of local governments with responsibilities of managing e-waste. The findings of this study will significantly assist government agencies, industry, researchers, and other e-waste management agencies in reducing e-waste management costs and streamlining business operations. This will ensure that e-waste is managed within established e-waste management guidelines to protect human health and the environment.