Consumer Awareness of E-Waste Threat Increasing: Report

Consumer awareness of the e-waste threat is reportedly increasing day-by-day. This was revealed in a recent survey conducted by market research and consulting firm Pike Research of more than 1,000 Americans.

 

The study, called “Electronics Recycling and E-Waste Issues,” includes SWOT analysis for key sectors, analysis of consumer survey results, and forecasts for e-waste generation and processing volumes through 2025. The consumer survey consisted of a structured, Web-based questionnaire conducted among a nationally representative and demographically balanced sample of U.S. consumers.

 

During the survey, 76 percent of respondents said that recycling is the most appropriate way to handle unused, broken or obsolete electronics equipment at the end of its life. The volume of obsolete electronics equipment making their way to landfills is on the rise. In fact, the volume of such equipment is expected to reach 73 million metric tons by 2010.

 

According to Clint Wheelock, managing director at Pike Research, the consumer is an integral link in the chain for electronics recycling and e-waste management. To achieve those goals, consumer values, attitudes and behavior will have to support responsible handling of end-of-life electronics equipment.

 

Pike Research’s survey also found that 37 percent of consumers feel that electronics recycling should be free, and an additional 35 percent stated that electronics should be collected and processed as part of a curbside recycling program. However, only 14 percent felt that the cost of electronics recycling should be borne by consumers at the points of purchase or recycling.

 

Among the survey respondents, 10 percent supported the concept of “producer responsibility” where the manufacturer will pay. This approach is being increasingly adopted by OEMs.

 

The Pike Research report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global e-waste landscape including supply chain structures, legislative and regulatory issues, market drivers and inhibitors, and in-depth profiles for key industry players around the world. The survey has also revealed that an average consumer has 2.8 pieces of unused, broken or obsolete electronics equipment in their home or storage area. It was also found out that the cost of collecting, hauling, demanufacturing and recycling a single piece of used electronics equipment will be more than $20.

 

Pike Research’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, as well as deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of global clean technology markets.