Bridging the socioeconomic gap in E-waste: Evidence from aggregate data across 27 European Union countries

The responsible handling of e-waste has become a critical worldwide concern since, as it is essential for both environmental protection and human health because. This is because it prevents the release of harmful chemicals and reduces the ecological impact associated with the electronic waste disposal. Despite efforts the e-waste collection remains low due to a variety of reasons, including inadequate collection systems and socio-economic disparities. The present study aims to investigate the socioeconomic determinants affecting the level of e-waste in a sample of 27 EU countries for the period 2005–2020. The empirical analysis contributes to the existing literature by estimating the short- and long-term relationship between e-waste collection and corruption, income inequalities, imperfect gas market structures and labor market conditions. For this purpose, the study employs panel data techniques and cointegration analysis. The findings robustly suggest that countries with higher levels of socio-economic justice tend to exhibit higher e-waste collection levels, while the concentration of market share among a few dominant natural gas companies decreases collection levels. Low e-waste collection is also associated with concentrated income in the hands of a few individuals in both the short-and long-run. By advocating for equitable resource allocation and establishing a supportive environment, we can encourage increased levels of e-waste collection. Encouraging gas market entries and discouraging anti-competitive practices through regulatory frameworks is also crucial. Strategies to reduce wealth disparities and promote income equality involve implementing progressive taxation systems, redistributive policies, and inclusive economic development initiatives.