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5. Role of the different stakeholders for the sustainable management of
e-waste
The role of different stakeholders in the sustainable management of e-waste should be determined by the life cycle
of EEE. The key is to clearly define these roles to ensure environmentally sustainable e-waste management in Latin
America. Listed below are some of the most important actors in the process of sustainable e-waste management.
Producers or manufacturers of EEE: One of the main responsibilities of this group is the comprehensive
management and disposal of e-waste. Other responsibilities include: accepting the legal responsibility that
corresponds to their manufactured items that produce environmental damage if treated improperly; detailing the
composition of the devices and how they should be treated at EoL; and raising awareness among consumers about
the prohibition against disposing e-waste with household waste. Furthermore, they have to: establish an e-waste
collection system that is easily accessible to citizens; ensure the proper management of the devices at all stages
(collection, transportation, storage, treatment, utilization and/or recovery and/or final disposal); and bear the
costs of selective collection and environmental waste management. During the manufacturing of the equipment,
they should introduce some eco-design standards to facilitate recycling and reuse of materials at EoL.
Consumers of EEE: Their role is fundamental, because they are the ones who decide to purchase or change the
EEE item when it is replaced. While the user tries to access the latest technology, they should understand that their
waste could be reused or recycled within the value chain of e-waste. The user has the responsibility to choose the
correct products in order to try to extend the life of their devices to the fullest extent. Consumers should purchase
devices that comply with the environmental standards to extend their life cycle and promote their reuse. These
are some of the habits that can be implemented to avoid the increase of e-waste. It is also essential that users do
not discard e-waste along with other household or business waste; they should instead opt to use established
collection centres or places where proper treatment is applied.
Waste management entities: These are the entities responsible for the management of e-waste throughout the
entire chain of management and disposal. Their role is associated with each of the functions performed at the
different stages of the process: collection, dismantling, treatment and disposal. Managers are responsible for
ensuring various environmentally responsible processes. This type of management includes public or private
organizations involved in recycling, refurbishment and disassembly of e-waste. These organizations must be
approved and formalized as a requirement for participation in the process. They should also meet the technical,
environmental and quality standards established for proper e-waste management. Furthermore, they should
ensure proper management procedures to maintain the original product’s quality standards. Managers should
meet current environmental regulations and identify the risks associated with the management of e-waste, such
as environmental pollution or illegal export to other countries.
National and municipal governments: For its part, the state should establish laws to determine the producers’
responsibility and their obligation to manage the equipment at EoL. Furthermore, it should encourage the reuse
of EEE, inform consumers about the prohibition of discarding e-waste with household waste and, in turn, report
that e-waste must be delivered to the designated collection points. It is recommended that governments devise
policies for the management of e-waste, considering key aspects, such as:
• Developing a regulatory framework based on the principle of EPR whereby the most important aspects
concerning e-waste are regulated. This framework should ensure compliance with the obligations and
respect of the rights of each stakeholder involved in the system. It is recommended that they establish
actions and appropriate sanctions against those who do not comply with the established obligations in this
regard;
• Establishing policies for education, health and environment, in coordination with the private sector and civil
society organizations;
• Developing actions for environmental awareness and population health;
• Promoting the creation and formalization of companies and organizations dedicated to refurbishment,
recycling and disposal of e-waste by streamlining procedures that authorize its operation;
• Implementing effective measures to control smuggling, illegal import and marketing of EEE, its components
and its parts;
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