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E-waste Management: A Case Study of Municipalities of Santa Elena Province - Ecuador

Abstract:

Waste of electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE or e-waste) is constantly growing worldwide as information and communications technologies (ICT) and electronics penetrate the market to satisfy society current needs. Development requires reducing the technological gap with the undesired consequent increment of e-waste. Inadequate handling and disposal of these residues poses a threat to environment and health, specially in developing countries. E-waste has been thoroughly studied worldwide; however, there is limited research about this topic in Ecuador and its municipalities. This case study focused on the current e- waste management system of the three municipalities of Santa Elena Province of Ecuador in order to propose improvements. Total WEEE generation and generation rates were estimated. Qualitative research methods were used to map the main stakeholders and to analyze the current waste management scheme. Literature review was performed, and field work included observation, interviews and surveys. Most of the stakeholders were approached during this study. The awareness and willingness of citizens to participate in campaigns and initiatives was evaluated. A comparison with other Ecuadorian cities is presented to tailor recommendations for municipalities. Two stages are suggested to improve the current scheme as the province faces many challenges closing open dump sites and including e-waste management in the current agenda.