E-Waste Stream Analysis and Design Implications

Abstract

The quantity and age of the incoming stream of “feedstock” from product take-back systems are known as the major sources of the uncertainty that complicates the e-waste recovery. This paper presents the results of an analysis of data from an incoming stream for an e-waste collection center and analyzes the quantity and age of e-waste by product type and brand. The analysis results point out receiving of outdated products and processing of multiple generations, and brands of products at the same time are among main obstacles to the e-waste recovery. The potential role of product design in overcoming those obstacles is discussed with emphasis on design for upgrade, repurpose, and commonality.