Evaluation Criteria for Mapping the E-Waste Recycling Market in the Cities of Brasília (DF) and Recife (PE) and Surrounding Areas, with a Focus on Identifying Future Consolidation and/or Dismantling Centers

Abstract

Objective of the study: To map the e-waste recycling market in the cities of Brasília – DF and Recife – PE, specifically aiming to identify potential future consolidation centers and dismantling centers.

Relevance/originality: The reuse and recycling of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) involve operations related to reverse manufacturing and recycling processes. Reverse manufacturing includes stages such as disassembly, separation, dismantling, shredding, compacting, and packaging of WEEE for reuse or further recycling, all of which must comply with operational standards and current legislation. The study focuses on the operational criteria an organization must meet to be considered an appropriate destination for intermediate WEEE treatment and the indicators used for this assessment.

Methodology/approach: An exploratory study was conducted to understand the market and its specificities, through the collection of secondary data from official web sources, competent agencies, unions, and others. Primary data were collected through phone interviews with the identified actors. The interviews were based on the operational criteria of the Brazilian technical standard ABNT NBR 16156:2013 – Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment – which sets the requirements for reverse manufacturing activities within a certifiable management system. Subsequently, technical visits were carried out at some organizations to evaluate potential cooperatives and recyclers with the capacity to operate as consolidation and/or dismantling centers.

Main results: A total of 732 actors were identified in the target municipalities, with 129 effectively responding to the questionnaire. The interviewed actors were classified into five categories: (i) Cooperatives and Associations (25); (ii) Recyclers (13); (iii) Non-Governmental Organizations (17); (iv) Governmental Organizations (18); (v) Retailers (56). Among them, 36 were identified as potential consolidation and/or dismantling centers.

Theoretical/methodological contributions: The study highlights recyclers and cooperatives working with WEEE who are interested in participating in reverse logistics programs in the two municipalities, along with the collection of socioeconomic data from the target areas to estimate the volume of WEEE generated.

Social/managerial contributions: The improper management of electronic waste is a major environmental issue in the regions studied, as well as across Brazil. However, such a necessary change within the community often leads to initial disruption, reflected in differing political stances and social confusion, which can only be overcome through concrete initial achievements. Progress is only possible through initiatives and programs that raise awareness about proper e-waste management.