TOPIC:
How can we tackle down the pain points of E-WASTE handling through an innovative APP and social engagement?
About the e-waste issue
A record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste was produced globally in 2019;
$57 billion in gold and other components discarded — mostly dumped or burned.
- from "Global E-Waste Surging: Up 21% in 5 Years" by United Nations University
The main issues of e-waste can generally be categorized as follows:
Huge volume.（an annual volume of 120 million tons is predicated in 2050）
Requires a very complicated sorting process to recycle. （up to 60 elements in the periodic table can be found in complex electronic products）
Big economic value is being wasted as high-value materials are being dumped.
About the project
United Nations is advocating a new Circular Vision for Electronics that includes:
Design - Products designed for durability, reuse and safe recycling, substances of concern substituted out.
Repair, second life, and durability - Products last longer and have a second or third lives aided by advanced refurbishment and repair and efficient second hand markets.
Higher product collection and return with incentives for consumers.
Advanced recycling and recapture.
My project is trying to relieve two major pain points of e-waste recycling through an innovative APP system:
Raise awareness of proper e-waste handling
Better connect manufacturers, recyclers, and consumers during the recycling process.
An innovative solution
E-Cycle, the first e-waste recycle system, provides a bounce between users and recyclers, linking deliverers and community recycle boxes, aiming for a cleaner environment.
- by Jia HAN, designer of E-Cycle
Going forward
This six-month design project is just a start of my exploration of the worldwide e-waste challenges we are facing. I would love to hear more opinions regarding:
Views and suggestions on current e-waste recycling founding policies in China
Ideas to improve the cost efficiency of the APP with the sustainability spirit in a whole way.
The business strategy and profit potential of the APP.
Please feel free to drop me a line!
My email address is jiahan@gmail.com
