Electronic and electrical waste management in Sri Lanka: Suggestions for national policy enhancements

Abstract

Waste is one of the most pressing problems faced by the whole world. Electronic waste is the latest in the Sri Lankan waste stream. Literature revealed many electronic waste management concepts, strategies and models implemented worldwide to counter the electronic waste menace, inclusive of electronic waste management policy developed in Sri Lanka to manage electronic waste generation. The purpose of this paper is to explore probable suggestions to improve existing electronic waste management practices, with special emphasis on enhancement of national policy of electronic waste management in Sri Lanka. The research problem was approached by case study method since it facilitates an in-depth investigation. Multiple case study design was applied by employing three case studies. Cases were selected considering major types of electronic waste which exhibit high penetration rates within country: namely (1) household appliances, (2) IT and telecommunication equipments and (3) lighting equipments. Crosscase analysis and code-based content analysis techniques were applied in data analysis phase of the research. Four expert interviews were conducted to further verify proposed improvements to existing electronic waste management practices. Case study findings revealed issues in electronic waste minimization and handling processes that need special attention. Empirical findings further revealed less government commitment and ineffective government procedures as critical issues in electronic waste management. Procedures of imports and exports, waste minimization, waste collection, storage, treatment and disposal, legal framework, capacity building and awareness, implementation and coordination mechanisms, monitoring, evaluation, reporting and resource mobilization can be identified as major areas for national policy enhancement. Consequently, the national policy of electronic waste management can be implemented as a national strategy to manage electronic waste generation in Sri Lanka.