Search Results (75)

The rapid proliferation of electronic waste, driven by the short lifecycle of smartphones and planned obsolescence strategies, presents escalating global environmental challenges. To address these issues from a systems perspective, this study develops an agent-based modeling (ABM) framework that simulates consumer decisions and stakeholder interactions within the smartphone reuse and recycling ecosystem. The model incorporates key behavioral drivers—privacy concerns, moral norms, and financial incentives—to examine how social and economic factors shape consumer behavior. Four primary agent types—consumers, manufacturers, recyclers, and second-hand retailers—are modeled to capture complex feedback and market dynamics. Calibrated using empirical data from Jiangsu Province, China, the simulation reveals a dominant consumer tendency to store obsolete smartphones rather than engage in reuse or formal recycling. However, the introduction of government subsidies significantly shifts behavior, doubling participation in second-hand markets and markedly improving recycling rates. These results highlight the value of integrating behavioral insights into environmental modeling to inform circular economy strategies. By offering a flexible and behaviorally grounded simulation tool, this study supports the design of more effective policies for promoting responsible smartphone disposal and lifecycle extension. Full article

The rapid increase in waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) creates major environmental and governance issues in developing countries like Ecuador struggle because they with minimal formal collection and recycling rates. This research presents a potential sustainable management approach that tracks products through their life cycles while following circular economy principles that include product extension and material extraction and waste minimization. A systematic literature review (SLR) using the PRISMA methodology combined with a bibliometric analysis found essential global strategies and technological frameworks and regulatory frameworks. The analysis of articles demonstrates that information management systems (IMSs) together with digital technologies and consistent regulations serve as essential elements for enhancing traceability and material recovery and formal recycling processes. A WEEE management IMS model was developed for the Ecuadorian market through an analysis of the findings; it follows a five-stage development process, starting from the technological infrastructure setup to complete data visualization integration. The proposed model is designed to enable public–private–community partnerships using digital tools that promote sustainable practices. The combination of circular strategies with traceability technologies and strong regulatory frameworks leads to improved WEEE governance, which supports sustainable system transitions in emerging economies. Full article

This article addresses a topic of critical importance globally, particularly in the context of the ongoing energy crisis, climate change, and efforts to transition towards sustainable energy systems. A growing environmental awareness among consumers, along with changing regulations on energy efficiency, forces companies to adapt their products and services to meet new market demands. Eco-innovations, such as energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly materials, can respond to the increasing demand for products with a lower carbon footprint and reduced energy consumption. Using structural equation modelling, our study aimed to evaluate the significance of selected determinants of enterprise activities aimed at innovations that yield environmental benefits. The analysis focused on the scale of the benefits obtained due to these innovations (e.g., reduced material or water use per unit of output, reduced energy use, reduced CO₂ footprint, reduction in pollution, or recycling of waste) and during the consumption or use of goods or services by the end user (e.g., energy savings, facilitated recycling, or extended product life). The empirical data source was a database of anonymised individual data from Statistics Poland. The database comprised 8544 industrial enterprises employing 10 or more people, of which 2714 introduced eco-innovations. To verify the hypothetical relationships between variables, we proposed a structural equation modelling method. The structural model estimates indicated that requirements arising from current and future regulations, pressure from high operational costs and administrative formalities, and reputation and incentives had a positive and statistically significant impact on the scale of benefits obtained due to these eco-innovations. The assessment of the importance of factors determining the introduction of eco-innovations differed slightly between companies of different sizes. For large enterprises, the key determinants were incentives, reputation, and law requirements. For medium-sized enterprises, incentives and reputation were the most influential. For small enterprises, reputation was the primary determinant, followed closely by pressure and incentives at a similar level. Full article

E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electronic devices and components, and the management of e-waste has become a newly arising and challenging issue both in India and globally. Due to the increase in population, urbanization, global demand, and expansion of the digital infrastructure, generation of electronic waste is increasing annually. This study provides a comprehensive and thoroughly reviewed qualitative study on electronic waste management practice. This study highlights an outline of the amount of electronic waste generation in India and the world and examines prevailing approaches in the treatment and management of electronic waste, including unsafe informal recycling and inadequate inventory control. This article focuses on major problems such as child labor, illegal dumping, poor infrastructure, limited knowledge and awareness among the public inadequate legal regulation, and spillage of various toxic heavy metals such as arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), and barium (Ba) via electronic waste. This study analyzes the harmful effects of toxic heavy metals, such as arsenic and mercury, on environmental quality and human well-being. To address these issues, this study outlines various sustainable recommendations, such as technology improvement proper collection; handling, management, and eradication of waste generated by electrical equipment in formal recycling practices; the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, and recycle) following circular economy practice, including collaboration between governmental, non-governmental, business, industries, and civil society; better legislative measures such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) and a single approach method, where collecting, sorting, and dismantling electronic waste is handled by the informal sector, while the formal sector manages extraction of metal, disposal, and recycling. Full article

An increasing lack of raw materials, resource depletion, environmental impacts and other concerns have changed the way the population faces garbage disposal and municipalities implement waste management strategies. The aggravated global rise in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation has led to a new stage in full development, with objectives and targets set by the European Union regarding reducing the production of MSW. The targets also include the increasing selective collection, reuse, recycling and recovery (organic and energetic) of the waste produced. At the same time, the European Union has also set caps for the greenhouse gas emissions and for increasing the use of alternative renewable energy sources. In this context, one of the sources of renewable energy that is beginning to be used to produce electricity in our country is biogas. Finally, AD promotes the development of a circular economy. The present study introduces the formalism for a computer application that simulates the technical–economic behaviour of the short-term management of biogas for the conversion of electricity, and the mathematical model is formulated as a mathematical programming problem with constraints. A simulation for a case study of short-term management is given using the real landfill data available. The case study proves the ability of the LandGEM, despite some authors’ support that the Tabasaran–Rettenberger model provided a more reliable estimate, especially when compared to actual landfill data. The present paper is a contribution to the optimisation of the management of electricity from the use of biogas, namely the second phase of the Strategic Plan for Urban Waste. In addition to complying with the legislation in force, the use of biogas to produce electricity is an added value for the concessionaires of waste treatment and final destination units, as this alternative energy source can provide not only self-sufficiency in electricity for these units but also the export of surplus energy to the National Electricity Grid, thus contributing to the self-sustaining management and energy flexibility that is intended for these infrastructures. Full article

Over 1350 Chilean rural schools are experiencing a lack of potable water, and 40.4% of them lack formal access to drinking water and have to resort to various alternative sources of supply, with 43% relying on wells or waterwheels, 32% using water trucks, and 26% relying on rivers, springs, or streams. Due to the extreme situation, most inhabitants of affected rural areas count on different means of water recycling, mainly reused from irrigation, without control or management of water quality. For this study, Los Bellotos de la Vega Elementary, a rural school, became a case study as proposed by the Municipality of Olmué. The educational program focuses on crops and plantations based on rural agricultural practices, which are irrigated by a water recycling system. Through microbiological water analysis, olfactory air quality testing, surveys, and photovoice methods, we identified serious problems with the implementation and management of the water recycling system, including a lack of resources and maintenance, which could endanger the health of the members of the community. An analysis of the treatment plant’s water revealed that the recycled water did not meet quality standards, and the water supplied by water trucks was at the limits of the standards. It was also found that all the families related to the school children recycle water in their homes without any control over the quality of the water they reuse. However, a positive aspect revealed by this study is the elevated level of awareness about water conservation, habits of use, consumption, rationing, and reuse, as well as knowledge of appropriate vegetation, and they are already part of daily life. Full article

The world is facing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, significantly impacting lower-middle-income countries like Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia, which depend heavily on tourism. Poor waste management, unclear responsibilities, and weak policies contribute to environmental degradation. Tourism, a key economic driver, also increases the problem by high plastic use and waste generation during peak seasons. This study evaluates current waste management practices in Alexandria (Egypt), Essaouira (Morocco), and Hammam Sousse (Tunisia) and proposes improvements using a newly developed “Extended Sector Responsibility” (ESR) model, which introduces an innovative organizational approach to waste management in touristic destinations. Using a combination of desk research, questionnaires, waste sorting analyses, and expert interviews, our research identifies systemic deficiencies. None of the studied locations have formal source separation systems, and waste management heavily depends on the informal sector. Hotels exhibit limited capacity for effective waste practices due to the lack of municipal infrastructure for separate collection. Economic analysis of the ESR model, which involves the establishment of a new waste recovery facility, demonstrates that while such facilities can generate revenue exceeding operational costs under specific scenarios, their long-term viability hinges on additional funding, possibly through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms. Although Egypt and Tunisia have EPR legislation, implementation remains inadequate, and Morocco lacks such frameworks. The study emphasizes the critical need for investments in municipal waste management infrastructure, including logistics, sorting, and recycling systems. It also highlights actionable opportunities for the tourism sector to reduce waste by minimizing single-use plastics and food waste. By adopting the ESR model, the tourism sector can play a pivotal role in transitioning to a circular economy, ultimately mitigating environmental impacts and enhancing sustainability in the region. Full article

A demand to replace an easily combustible wood with wood–plastic–rubber composite with better thermal performance than wood is at its peak globally. Wood-based composite materials in the form of wood–polymer composite (WPC) have emerged as new materials that can replace wood to produce wood products for various use. The use of recycled polymers as biodegradable polymer blended with fiber particles, waste tire powder, and other substances to manufacture new products known as wood–rubber–plastics composite (WRPC) for building construction and other different applications, has piqued the interest of numerous researchers. High flammability and weak combustibility parameters are a setback for many wood-based composites because of the flammability of these composites. Fabricated WRPC based on non-toxic fire retardants and other additives used to modify the flame-resistant quality of these composites, the fabrication techniques, and mechanical characteristics are herein reviewed. It is hoped that better composite in the form of WRPC can be used as building materials for informal and formal dwellings. Full article

The current research work emphasizes the urgent need for a paradigm shift in Mediterranean tourism, advocating for the adoption of a comprehensive framework centered on sustainability in Tunisia. The establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force is proposed to facilitate collaboration across governmental sectors, thereby enhancing governance and addressing the complexities of waste management within the tourism industry. Results reveal significant waste management inefficiencies and underscore the potential of integrated approaches that can lead to substantial environmental improvements. By fostering inter-ministerial collaboration, a strategic roadmap is provided that promotes effective resource recovery and sustainable waste management practices. Furthermore, the integration of the informal sector, exemplified by local recyclers, into formal waste management systems is anticipated to enhance social equity and bolster environmental stewardship. A comprehensive SWOT analysis identifies Tunisia’s intrinsic strengths, including its rich cultural heritage and significant eco-tourism potential, while simultaneously exposing shortcomings such as fragmented governance structures and insufficient infrastructure. It is posited that the creation of a centralized coordination body, coupled with the enhancement of public–private partnerships, could catalyze innovation in sustainable tourism practices, leading to increased investment opportunities and the successful implementation of circular economy principles. Drawing inspiration from Spain’s successful circular economy model, actionable recommendations for policymakers are offered, including the introduction of eco-certification programs aimed at incentivizing environmentally responsible practices within the tourism sector. Ultimately, the proposed framework aspires to position Tunisia as a regional leader in sustainable tourism, delivering long-term benefits to local communities through enhanced environmental protection and economic resilience. Full article

This article documents the rammed earth construction practices undertaken at the “Tiles Hill–Xiangshan Campus Reception Centre” project. Traditional rammed earth craftsmanship is a sustainable construction method, with its core rooted in the precise material ratios and building techniques. This project aimed to explore the revival of this nearly forgotten vernacular construction method by integrating modern building technologies, all while adhering to the principle of avoiding any stabilizer additives. The project utilized a total of 2200 cubic meters of rammed earth to construct 16 walls, predominantly oriented north-south, with heights ranging from 3.6 m to 9.6 m and a thickness of 0.6 m. Before the formal commencement of the project, the team conducted experiments in the laboratory, constructing test walls to determine the optimal template fabrication and installation system compatible with modern rammed earth techniques. During the construction process, the team refined the rammed earth techniques, addressing challenges such as wall tilting, horizontal cracking caused by material settlement, and the flexible connection between the earthen walls and the primary structural framework through rational structural node design. The walls also passed compressive strength tests. Furthermore, advancements in the construction process allowed for the recycling and reuse of excavated soil. The article emphasizes that the sustainability of rammed earth techniques extends beyond material reuse to encompass the material’s inherent environmental friendliness and nondestructive nature. It argues that, provided there is a thorough understanding of the material properties of soil and reasonable structural and node design, coupled with the addition of necessary structural measures, it is entirely feasible to achieve ecological sustainability in rammed earth construction without the use of stabilizing additives. Full article

The expansion of cities and land use changes have led to the emergence of peri-urban areas representing a transition between fully urbanized and agricultural regions in Southeast Asia. Peri-urban communities provide essential ecosystem services but are vulnerable to climate-related disruptions and socioeconomic challenges. Utilizing their unique characteristics, peri-urban communities can contribute to sustainable development and resilience. This study assesses the potential of peri-urban areas to meet future challenges for sustainable development in a changing world, focusing on the local pandan farming community of Pathum Thani, approximately 53 km north of Bangkok, using the Community-Based Resilience Analysis (CoBRA) approach. A formally established group of peri-urban farming households identified COVID-19, water quality, and solid waste as their primary disruptive challenges. The community identified economic stability and resources (land ownership, financial security, and government support), community and social support (collaborative community, and healthcare facilities), an environmental dimension (sufficient food and clean water), and an information dimension (news and knowledge update) as key community resilience characteristics, which highlight their comprehensive approach to hazard resilience. The study concludes that the community was moderately resilient to hazards and COVID-19 was the primary disrupting event over the past 10 years. To address future challenges in peri-urban agriculture, it is suggested to focus on enhancing economic diversification, strengthening social networks and support systems, implementing sustainable land management practices, and promoting access to timely and accurate information. Additionally, investing in infrastructure for water management and waste recycling, supporting small-scale farming initiatives, and fostering collaboration between farmers and local authorities can contribute to building resilience in peri-urban agricultural communities. Full article

Indigenous knowledge systems related to solid waste management in economically marginalized communities have been largely overlooked in the scientific literature, even though the indigenous communities of developing nations struggling to manage solid waste rely on these practices. It is startling that indigenous solid waste management practices are scarcely documented in the scientific literature despite their position as potential alternative disposal methods. This gap persists amid limited municipal budgets, inadequate waste collection services, and poor infrastructure in economically marginalized indigenous rural communities in developing nations. Subsequently, in the discipline of solid waste management, this obstacle impedes the recognition and inclusion of indigenous waste management practices into integrated waste management plans. As a result, this causes a delay in their progress or elevation to the same level of credibility as mainstream scientific knowledge. In the process, this relegates the waste management practices of indigenous communities to the background. Against this background, the current study sought to investigate the indigenous solid waste management practices of rural communities in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality. As such, ten cases that captured the spatial cultural diversity of indigenous communities’ practices across Bushbuckridge Local Municipality (BLM) were selected for sampling. Data were collected using ethnographic research methods. Data analysis was carried out using the thematic analysis approach. Inductive logic was used in the interpretation of the current study results. The results of the current study indicate that indigenous communities of Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, in the absence of formal waste management services from the local authority, resort to an indigenous knowledge system to manage solid waste. Waste burning (100%), open-air dumping (100%), and backyard pits (90%) are some of the indigenous waste management practices espoused by the rural communities of BLM. The similarity in practices was corroborated by statistical inferences that revealed that between BLM communities, the amount of indigenous waste management practices is not significant (p > 0.05). However, there are concerns that despite the sustainability aspect associated with recycling (<25%) practices, these disposal methods are not common in the rural communities of BLM. This is a setback for an indigenous knowledge system that is supposed to advance environmental sustainability practices. Full article

Electronic waste (E-waste) is a global environmental issue and a contemporary challenge in developing countries, where implementing sustainable E-waste management policies is required to mitigate the adverse impacts of inappropriate treatment and disposal. This study assesses the environmental and human health impacts of the current E-waste management system in Yaoundé. The study then proposes an integrated E-waste management system (IEMS) with policy instruments for increased formal E-waste collection and reduced environmental impacts from informal E-waste treatment. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was utilized to identify high-impact contributing processes within the current E-waste management system (EMS) and to determine the optimum scenario for an integrated system. The system dynamics model (SDM) analysis ascertained the efficiency of the E-waste policy under the IEMS. Results show that the IEMS can reduce global warming potential, fine particulate matter formation, and human carcinogenic toxicity from one ton of E-waste treatment by 27%, 16.3%, and 34%, respectively. Regarding the policy efficiency simulation for the IEMS, the policy instrument (Policy 1), with levies on electronic appliance producers, proved environmentally efficient in reducing the quantity of informal recycling. It was also more economically viable for the recycling fund to increase formal E-waste collection and subsidize formal treatment within the context of the IEMS. The study outcome is informative for E-waste management policy planning in developing economies. Full article

The textile branch traditionally uses a surplus of energy, consuming an enormous amount of water, and is responsible for the deterioration of the environment. New solutions are formally focused on a circular economy with an impetus on sustainable development and a world with zero waste. In reality, the aims of circular economy often do not coincide with sustainability issues, and sustainability is, in fact, narrowed to nature-created products (especially fibers) and not renewable resources. The main aims of this article are to critically discuss sustainability aspects of fiber development, textile design, production, use, and recycling or waste treatment. It is demonstrated that despite improvements in sustainability, comprehensive solutions need focused action of specialists from different disciplines with the same target, i.e., real sustainability for a future world. New machinery for the production of textiles without limitations to their thickness is one typical example of the approach to better sustainability. One of the key issues is the selection of sustainable fibers for future textile applications. The benefits and problems of replacing synthetic fibers with natural ones are discussed in detail. The recent techniques of textile waste treatment are presented, and problems with microplastics releasing from textiles are shown. Full article

This study investigates the post-regulation scenario of waste electrical and electronic equipment (e-waste) reverse logistics in Florianópolis, an island in southern Brazil, following Decree N° 10240/2020. Employing a case study approach, involving observation and semi-structured interviews, the research explores key stakeholders’ roles. The results indicate collaborative efforts among the municipal cleaning service provider, recycler, and manager entity, supporting effective e-waste take-back systems. This cooperation not only strengthens the formal recycling market but also yields socio-environmental benefits. The study reveals that optimal outcomes arise from the collaboration between the public cleaning service provider and the business sector, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship. Concerning e-waste value recovery, there is a notable inclination to extend the life cycle of small equipment, emphasizing reuse and remanufacture cycles, while larger electrical and electronic items follow to recycling and recovery cycles. In summary, this research contributes to aligning stakeholders in e-waste reverse logistics, emphasizing compliance with legislation and fostering a deeper understanding of roles, functions, and alliances. The study provides a strategic and structured perspective on e-waste management in a city renowned for selective waste collection and considered a national benchmark for reverse logistics, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Full article