Political instruments for electronic waste disposal in light of Brazilian consumer behavior

The production of electronic waste has increased in recent years, becoming a global problem. In this scenario, despite having policies to regulate the disposal of this waste, Brazil is unable to manage it effectively. Among the associated factors is the low participation of consumers. Given this, the goal was to evaluate Brazilian population’s knowledge and electronic waste disposal practices, so that strategies can be devised to improve their participation in the electronic waste management process. A quantitative approach was employed through the application of a form containing closed-ended questions. The data was processed using descriptive-statistical analysis with ANOVA and Chi-square tests. The empirical results indicated that most respondents have solid knowledge about what electronic waste is (38%) and about what to do with their electronic devices (40.4%) when they become unusable. Despite this, 85.6% of those surveyed have some unused electrical and electronic equipment stored in their homes. Six strategies were analyzed (Elaboration of stricter regulations; application of punishments, such as fines; application of economic incentives; promotion of information campaigns by the government; implementation of educational practices on the topic; and offering more collection points) and were evaluated as “very important” by the respondents. Consumers showed interest in wanting to discard properly; however, most of the time, they do not do so due to the difficulties encountered. They defend the idea that the Brazilian government should act more effectively to simplify the disposal procedure.