How to unlock potentials of preparation for reuse: barriers and action recommendations

This paper reports on success factors and action recommendations for preparation for reuse (PfR) of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). Relevant actors along the value chain of PfR are identified. Based on semi-structured interviews, the market attractiveness for PfR operators is evaluated from a German perspective. The results show deficits in access to viable products, barriers to market entry and remarketing of reused goods, intense competition for reused goods, and impeding interdependencies with the primary market. Second, a literature review is conducted to derive action recommendations that address the barriers to reuse. The action recommendations are distinguished by the type of instrument into the categories information (six measures), legal framework (eight measures), organizational structure (seven measures), and process change (five measures). Each measure is assigned to the relevant actors and the effect towards improving the market attractiveness for PfR. Based on the number of references in literature, the main success factors for PfR are derived. Those are value-conserving logistics, public relations work, the introduction of an umbrella brand, and cooperation between collection points and repair or sales platforms. This structured overview serves as a guide for decision-makers as to which recommendations for action should be given priority and implemented.