Exploring the role of collective in e-waste sector : bringing the informal sector into the world of regulations

Abstract

This study examines the involvement of various stakeholders in resolving the problem of informality in the e-waste sector. The study attempts to comprehend stakeholders' perspectives, issues, and options to minimising informality through interviews with stakeholders, including EPR authorised enterprises, recyclers, dismantlers, and government officials. The study also looks at how campaigns like Haritha Karma Sena and groups like Hasirudhala are fostering inclusive practises and lowering inequality in trash management.

The results show that EPR authorised businesses have difficulty collecting precise information about the flow of goods into the black market. The lack of financial incentives and aims, as well as the limited engagement with the informal sector, all contribute to the perpetuation of informality. However, EPR authorised businesses have the opportunity to address this problem by putting into place strategies including enhancing monitoring systems, encouraging correct disposal, and encouraging partnerships with recognised recycling suppliers.

The conversations with recyclers and dismantlers shed light on how difficult it is for them to work with unofficial players in the e-waste industry. Their efforts are hampered by a lack of information regarding the volume of e-waste entering the blackmarket and negative incentives for interacting with unorganised labour. To address these issues, it is necessary to establish more effective data gathering methods, partnerships with formal and informal actors, and focused efforts to stop the flow of e-waste into the black market.

The report makes a number of recommendations based on the findings to lessen informality and foster inclusion in the e-waste sector. These include improving data collection and monitoring systems, rewarding ethical waste management practises, encouraging partnerships between formal recyclers and EPR authorised businesses, and offering financial and technical assistance to help the formalisation of informal employees.