Design and Development of an e-Waste Management System

The rapid proliferation of electronic devices has led to a significant global challenge: the management of electronic waste (e-waste). The improper disposal of e-waste, containing hazardous substances such as heavy metals and toxic chemicals, has dire consequences for environmental sustainability and human health. Despite advancements in e-waste management in developed nations, many regions, including Zambia, face considerable barriers to implementing efficient and sustainable systems (Baldé et al., 2017; Forti et al., 2020). This research focuses on designing and developing an integrated e-waste management system that harnesses technological innovation, regulatory collaboration, and stakeholder engagement to address these challenges.

This study presents a computer-based application designed to streamline the lifecycle management of e-waste, encompassing collection, transportation, recycling, and final disposal. The application introduces automated calculation of disposal fees based on parameters such as waste volume and distance to disposal sites, enhancing transparency and efficiency. The system development was informed by surveys and questionnaires distributed among key stakeholders, including the Zambia Environment Management Agency (ZEMA), the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Technology and Sciences, and the public. The research identified critical gaps in existing e-waste management systems, such as limited public awareness, inefficient collection mechanisms, and inadequate regulatory enforcement. Drawing from global best practices, such as life cycle assessment (LCA), material flow analysis (MFA), multi-criteria analysis (MCA), and extended producer responsibility (EPR), the proposed system integrates these tools into a cohesive framework tailored to Zambia's socio-economic context (Kiddee et al., 2013; Singh et al., 2021).

The proposed e-waste management system demonstrates the potential to mitigate environmental and health risks associated with improper e-waste disposal. By fostering public engagement and adopting eco-design principles, the system promotes sustainable resource recovery, environmentally responsible disposal, and effective recycling practices. The findings emphasize that the combined application of regulatory frameworks, technological innovation, and stakeholder input significantly enhances the system's effectiveness.

This research underscores the importance of an integrated, multi-stakeholder approach to e-waste management. The proposed system not only addresses existing inefficiencies but also aligns with global sustainability goals. Its implementation could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, contributing to broader efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable development.