Evaluation of circular economy practices for management of the reverse chain of electronic waste in Brazil

Abstract

The increasing production of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Brazil is driving the adoption of circular economy (CE) practices related to the management of the WEEE reverse chain. Thus, the adoption of CE becomes essential for strategic management that promotes environmental preservation, and economic and social development. This study, which employed a survey as the research method, aims to evaluate the importance of CE practices related to the management of the WEEE reverse chain in Brazil. To achieve this, we employed the Kruskal–Wallis and Holm-Sidak multiple comparison tests. Based on the obtained results, the most significant practices are related to legislation and regulations, and effective consumer participation. These are followed by practices related to the management of outsourced recycling companies, and the involvement of logistics operators, treatment, and recycling strategies. The least representative practices were simulations and optimization strategies for logistics transportation, collection centers, and recycling centers. This study contributes to managerial practice by suggesting trends related to environmental management practices and material circularity, as well as compliance with the National Solid Waste Policy. For society, the research highlights the need for consumer education regarding the disposal of WEEE, as well as the necessity for governments and companies to collaborate in forming cooperatives.