Conceptual analysis of electronic waste: Revisiting the definition of waste and the classes of waste

摘要

It can be argued that the main objective of the European Community's Directive on waste electronic and electric equipment (WEEE) is waste prevention. However, to prevent waste, we need to know the reasons of why electronic devices ended up becoming waste in the first place. This key question is approached using a novel waste taxonomy presented earlier, where it has been argued that there are four waste categories. This presentation revisits the classes of waste from the point of analyzing WEEE. The taxonomy has been further developed and refined and new insights are presented regarding the importance of temporal and spatial characteristics in the concept of waste. A conceptual analysis of electronic waste is introduced, highlighting the importance of the human factor in recognizing waste. The factor of the social life cycle of consumer electronics such as mobiles phones is pointed out, having vital impact on their reuse potential. Finally, it is argued that responsible ownership will have major ramifications on WEEE recovery, and improving attitudes and raising awareness will be crucial in developing sustainable national WEEE recovery strategies.