ANNOUNCEMENTS
The rapid growth in electronic consumption has led to a surge in electronic waste (e-waste), creating serious environmental and health issues. This study delves into how human behavior, consumer awareness, and policy measures—especially Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)—work together to promote sustainable e-waste management. Focusing on Hyderabad, India, the research employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate behavioral patterns, the impact of awareness, and the efficiency of material recovery in the formal recycling sector. Two structured surveys were carried out: the first assessed awareness and disposal habits among various age groups in Hyderabad, while the second looked at changes in behavior among students who attended an e-waste awareness session. The results show that awareness campaigns play a crucial role in shaping consumers' intentions and their actual involvement in formal recycling efforts. A positive link was found between well-informed consumers and responsible e-waste disposal, supporting the Theory of Planned Behavior. Data on recycling performance from Recytronics Waste Solutions LLP further backs up these behavioral findings. Quantitative recovery statistics from appliances like air conditioners, washing machines, televisions, and refrigerators demonstrate that EPR-driven protocols not only ensure compliance with environmental standards but also improve resource recovery efficiency in formal recycling processes. The study emphasizes the important roles that changing behaviors and enforcing regulations play in creating a sustainable e-waste ecosystem. It points out the promise of scalable, community-focused awareness initiatives that can work alongside existing policy frameworks. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers, producers, recyclers, and educators who are looking to connect consumer engagement with the goals of a circular economy.
Keywords: E-waste management, EPR rules, Awareness, Consumer behaviour.
