Abstract
Globally, the drastic upsurge in technological innovation to fulfil the needs of the fast growing information age has resulted in early obsolescence of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). This phenomenon has led to e-waste becoming the world’s fastest growing waste stream. The value of desirable metals present in e-waste is understood to be worth around $14bn worldwide. However, over 50% of these precious metals are often not recovered. Australia is a significant importer of EEE and the 4th highest generator of e-waste in the world. Presently, substantial quantities of e-waste generated in Australia are diverted to landfills and less than 40% are recycled. The responsibility of appropriately managing and recycling e-waste rest on all stakeholders such as state and federal governments, local councils, the electrical and electronics industry, e-waste importers, manufacturers, retailers, recyclers, collectors, consumers and regulatory agencies. By working together, stakeholders can help ensure that e-waste is managed safely and responsibly to reduce the environmental and health impacts associated with inappropriate disposal of e-waste to preserve our planet for future generations. This paper examines the role of the various stakeholders in managing e-waste in Australia, their level of involvement/participation in e-waste management, identifies the problems and challenges confronting the various stakeholders; and recommends innovative strategies and approaches to address e-waste collection and recycling practices in Australia. A quantitative research method employing online survey questionnaires is adopted. The study surveys e-waste stakeholders groups in three Australian largest states – New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. The questionnaire contains questions relating to e-waste management and recycling policies, practices adopted to manage and recycle e-waste; and the problems and challenges encountered. The study is expected to improve the rate of e-waste recycling in Australia; inspire and support all stakeholders to commit to best-practices to reduce the significant, environmental and health problems created due to inappropriate recycling and disposal practices in the communities. The findings of this study will also provide useful insights to the various stakeholders groups, policy makers and researchers in developing appropriate sustainable e-waste recycling strategies and policy interventions to help solve the e-waste problem in Australia.