Factors that influence urban South African consumers' e-waste recycling behaviour : implementing the theory of planned behaviour

Abstract

Technology advancement has led to a new societal challenge of e-waste, a highly complex amalgamation of chemicals, glass, precious metals and plastic that is extremely toxic when incorrectly disposed. Recycling is deemed as a method by which people can help reduce their impact on the environment with many studies aimed at understanding the factors that influence recycling behaviour. This study aimed to understand the factors that influence the e-waste recycling behaviour of urban South African consumers using the Theory of Planned Behaviour as a framework for understanding underlying factors that influence behaviour. A quantitative study was undertaken with data collected through the distribution of a self-reported survey to a conveniently selected sample of which there were 160 respondents. Statistical analysis was conducted on the data collected and a model was constructed, using SEM regression analysis, to explain e-waste recycling behaviour. The findings revealed that social pressure is a leading influencing factor of e-waste recycling behaviour together with laws and regulation, inconvenience of recycling, past experience and cost of recycling. Environmental awareness and attitude towards e-waste recycling was not substantiated. The findings support future research and policy makers in developing laws that encourage the recycling of ewaste for the Planet’s sustainability.