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September 5, 2025Open Access

Sustainable E-Waste Management Through a Circular Economy Framework: Integrating Smart Technologies for Resource Recovery in Urban Environments

Key Points

E-waste management practices highlight the importance of extending electronics' lifespan through maintenance and repair.
Findings indicate variations in reuse practices among households, transporters, and higher education institutions.
Results suggest systemic barriers such as limited infrastructure and lack of awareness hinder effective e-waste management.
The study advocates for integrating smart technologies to enhance resource recovery and promote circular economy principles.

Abstract

Sustainable e-waste management is essential for mitigating environmental damage and optimizing resource recovery. This study explores the integration of a circular economy framework with smart technologies to enhance e-waste management in urban environments, particularly in Manila City. The findings highlight variations in e-waste reduction, reuse, and recycling practices across stakeholder groups, including households, local government units (LGUs), higher education institutions (HEIs), and transporters. Results indicate that extending the lifespan of electronics through maintenance and repair is the most widely adopted practice across all sectors, while alternative ownership models such as renting remain underutilized. Reuse practices vary, with households favoring device repair, transporters preferring trade-ins, and HEIs opting for second-hand purchases and repurposing outdated devices. Recycling trends also differ, with transporters emphasizing proper disposal, HEIs focusing on modification, and households/LGUs prioritizing sustainable purchasing. ANOVA results reveal no significant differences in e-waste reduction and recycling practices among stakeholder groups, suggesting systemic barriers such as limited infrastructure, lack of awareness, and insufficient incentives. Additionally, moderate awareness levels regarding e-waste management highlight the need for enhanced public education and policy interventions. The study underscores the importance of integrating smart technologies, such as automated sorting and AI-driven material recovery, to improve efficiency and promote circular economy principles. To advance sustainable e-waste management, policymakers must address existing barriers through targeted education programs, improved infrastructure, and regulatory measures. Strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, fostering innovation in recycling technologies, and implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies can significantly enhance resource recovery and reduce environmental impact

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