Constructed Governance as Solution to Conflicts in E-Waste Recycling Networks

Electronic waste (e-waste) has become an increasingly pressing problem worldwide because of the increase in the volume of waste, without a corresponding increase in the recycling rate. E-waste recycling models show a low percentage of reuse, at around 17.4% in the world, 11% in Latin America, and 3% in Sao Paulo City, Brazil. The sources of conflicts relating to e-waste recycling networks are diverse, including asymmetries of objectives, knowledge, ethical values, and culture of sustainability, which indicates the need for a system of regulatory mechanisms. The article's main proposition is that constructed governance, which is a collective process involving many actors, could be an alternative to e-waste recycling management. The city of Sao Paulo was chosen to be analyzed. Using an abductive methodology, the data analysis shows a fragmented network, with conflicts of interest among commercial and sustainability objectives, an absence of legal knowledge, and increases in the incorrect disposal of waste. However, initiatives in small groups in Brazil, which can be considered as examples of constructed governance, show a better volume of waste and the transportation of waste material to the right destination. The authors argue that constructed governance could be an efficient tool for e-waste recycling management systems. Besides, the article offers a matrix of indicators that can be used by both researchers and recycling managers.

Automated summary

E-waste has become a pressing global issue with low recycling rates. Conflicts in recycling networks stem from differences in objectives, knowledge, ethical values, and culture of sustainability, highlighting the need for regulatory mechanisms. Constructed governance involving various actors is proposed as an alternative to improve e-waste recycling management, with examples in Brazil showing potential success.