Quality Assurance and Consumer Electronics Recycling

What is it about?

The information within this chapter examines the characteristics of consumer electronic recycling systems to show how quality assurance has evolved to meet the current needs of reverse logistics demanufacturers. A review of the literature reveals several trends regarding the amount of e-waste, recycling programs, the influence of international regulations, a focus on large-scale operations, and emerging recycling certifications. Given the dynamic context of consumer electronics recycling systems and opportunities for new competitive capabilities, information within this chapter provides exploratory field study insight from a small US recycling firm. A primary contribution of this chapter is found in filling a gap in the literature to advance our understanding how small firms are overcoming emerging challenges and taking advantage of opportunities facing them within reverse supply chains focusing on recycling of consumer electronics and information technology assets. The field study sheds new light on quality assurance through emerging standards, contemporary opportunities for emerging business models within the industry, and implications for the future of reverse logistics practices and research.

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