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Abstract :
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The rapid growth in the use of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is increasing the generation of waste electrical and electronic equipment (e-waste) in Rwanda, creating environmental, health, resource-management, and economic challenges. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) provides a mechanism through which producers assume financial and/or operational responsibility for managing products at the end of their useful life.
Rwanda has established an e-waste regulatory framework that provides for EPR; however, implementation has been constrained by limited financing mechanisms, unclear producer obligations, and gaps in registration, reporting, monitoring, and enforcement. Since 2022, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has been providing technical assistance to the Government of Rwanda to support the design and implementation of an effective national EPR system for e-waste.
This contribution presents key elements for operationalizing EPR in Rwanda, including producer registration and compliance, sustainable financing, establishment and governance of a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), collection and recycling systems, stakeholder participation, digital traceability, public awareness, and monitoring and enforcement. The proposed approach aims to strengthen formal e-waste collection and environmentally sound recycling while supporting resource recovery, private-sector participation, green employment, and Rwanda's transition toward a circular economy.
Introduction: The increasing use of electrical and electronic equipment has resulted in growing volumes of e-waste globally and in Rwanda. Improper management of e-waste can cause environmental and health risks and result in the loss of valuable materials that could otherwise be recovered and reused. According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024, Rwanda generates approximately 10,000 tonnes of e-waste annually, with only about 20 per cent reported as formally collected and...
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