Authors:
Ali Sonde
Rushil Madan
Sahil Khan
Batch – Operations and Supply Chain Management
INTRODUCTION
Electronic waste, commonly known as e-waste, refers to discarded electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, televisions, and household appliances. Rapid technological advancement and frequent upgrades have significantly increased the generation of e-waste. Improper disposal of electronic waste releases toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium into the environment, causing severe health and environmental problems. Effective management of e-waste is essential for sustainable development.
OBJECTIVE
• To understand the underlying issue of rising electronic waste
• To study consumer awareness regarding proper e-waste disposal
LITERATURE REVIEW
Several studies indicate that rapid technological growth and reduced product life cycles have contributed to the exponential increase in electronic waste. Improper recycling and disposal practices expose humans and the environment to hazardous chemicals. Researchers emphasize the need for structured recycling systems and strict regulations to minimize the adverse impact of e-waste.
DATA COLLECTION
To understand the issue of rising electronic waste, five questions were framed using a 5-point Likert Scale. A Google Form was created with a linear scale from 1 to 5. A total of 100 students from ITM were surveyed. The collected data was downloaded in Excel format and Mean, Standard Deviation, Standard Error, and T-statistics were calculated.
DATA ANALYSIS
Q1. I am aware of the harmful effects of electronic waste
Q2. I dispose of electronic waste responsibly
Q3. Consumers are responsible for reducing e-waste
Q4. Recycling electronic products should be mandatory
Q5. Government should enforce strict e-waste management laws
STATISTICAL SUMMARY TABLE
|
Particulars |
Q1 |
Q2 |
Q3 |
Q4 |
Q5 |
|
Mean |
3.89 |
3.32 |
4.15 |
4.21 |
4.08 |
|
Standard Deviation |
1.14 |
1.17 |
1.06 |
1.01 |
1.12 |
|
Standard Error |
0.11 |
0.12 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.11 |
|
T-Statistics |
-38.75 |
-42.10 |
-41.30 |
-44.60 |
-39.85 |
|
Interpretation |
Agree |
Neutral |
Strongly Agree |
Strongly Agree |
Strongly Agree |
INTERPRETATION
When the t-statistic value lies between -1.96 and +1.96, respondents are considered neutral. When the t-statistic is greater than +1.96, respondents agree with the statement. When the t-statistic is less than -1.96, respondents disagree with the statement. The analysis shows strong agreement regarding responsibility, recycling, and regulation of electronic waste.
CONCLUSION
1. Students are aware of the harmful effects of electronic waste.
2. Students show neutral behavior regarding proper e-waste disposal practices.
3. Students strongly agree that consumers are responsible for reducing e-waste.
4. Students strongly agree that recycling of electronic products should be mandatory.
5. Students strongly agree that strict government regulations are necessary to control e-waste.