In India, most E-waste recyclers are small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), and they face several challenges in reverse logistics and the closed-loop supply chain for E-waste. Therefore, this study aims to identify the challenges along with mitigation strategies that hinder the closed-loop supply chain for effective E-waste management (EWM) from the perspective of Indian SME E-waste recyclers (ISERs).
First, this study used a qualitative case study approach to identify the EWM challenges and mitigation strategies for ISERs. In the next step, the interpretive structural modeling (ISM) approach was used to establish a theoretical framework to help ISERs and policymakers in the implementation of identified strategies.
With the help of a case study approach, 18 EWM challenges, such as taxation system, informal sector dominance, no price regulations for E-waste, lack of knowledge sharing among stakeholders, logistics issues and forecasting of E-waste were identified. In addition, 18 strategies were also identified to mitigate challenges.
ISM results show that strategies such as the E-waste scrapping policy, tax benefits for startups, the implementation of smart technologies, subsidies for new technologies, the establishment of E-waste recycling parks and rewards and recognition are crucial for mitigating challenges. The identified strategies may improve operational coordination, supply chain integration and reverse logistics performance.
This study may be the first to present EWM challenges, mitigation strategies and a theoretical framework for their implementation from ISERs’ perspective. It adds to the body of work by integrating operational, sourcing and logistics factors into a systematic model for implementing a strategy.
