Sustainability of Electronic Waste Management in Uganda: Driving Factors for the Extended Producer Responsibility Systems

Abstract

Uganda recognized the Strategic Development Goals (SDGs), a worldwide
blueprint to be reached by 2030 for a brighter and more sustainable future for
all, and incorporated them into the development of its Vision 2040 and National
Development Plan (NDP) for the 2020–2024–2025 timeframe. The need for
solutions to the worldwide e-waste problem is growing since e-waste is one of
the waste streams that is developing the quickest and needs immediate
attention. The study examined the driving factors for the successful Extended
Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems implementation in Uganda based on
electronic products. The study employs the Behavioural Reasoning Theory
(BRT) to understand Government employees’ perspective on drivers of
successful EPR systems implementation in Uganda. Through a questionnaire
survey, data were collected conveniently from government employees, at the
policy level, knowledgeable in E-waste and environmental-related issues. Data
analysis was done through the Partial Least Squares – Structural-Equation
Modeling - (PLS-SEM). Findings show that the establishment of the economic,
administrative and informative instruments, as well as their proper
enforcement, in implementing the EPR approach results in sustainable E-waste
management outcomes. The government should encourage concerted
stakeholder partnerships, establish a sustainable E-waste management system
and fast-track the implementation of the EPR model that works for Uganda.
For instance, deliberate government efforts towards green development paths,
laws, policies, and enforcement of appropriate government legislation,
strategic recycling of E-waste, enforcement of the 3R (Reduce, Reuse and
Recycle) and local country processing. However, implementation of the EPR
scheme also has several obstacles. Study implications and recommendations
are also included.

Keywords: Extended Producer Responsibility, Policy, Instruments, Electronic Waste,
Sustainable E-waste Management