Institutional, Infrastructural, and Behavioural Constraints to Formal E-Waste Recycling: A Systems-Level Stakeholder Analysis in Bhavnagar

The study examines the institutional, infrastructural, and behavioural barriers to formalising e-waste recycling in the Indian city of Bhavnagar at a systems level, involving stakeholders. They also employed a mixed-methods study, which comprised surveys of 110 respondents, seven focus group discussions, and maps of the geospatial locations of informal recycling areas. Results showed that 85% of the respondents noted the presence of weak regulatory enforcement, 80% indicated the absence of governmental support, and 75% stated the presence of significant policy lapses. Infrastructurally, 85% of them did not have a formal recycling setup, 60% lacked modern tools and technology, and 80% reported poor waste management services. The geospatial examination revealed high-density informal sites located within 100 meters of residential areas, characterised by hazardous levels of lead and mercury pollution. Behaviourally, although 90% admitted to health hazards, 55% opposed formalisation due to the low level of profitability and economic reliance, with only 50% willing to switch. Other checklists provided information, including 89% of sites did not have safety equipment, 88% had open burning, and 69% did not have child labour. According to the local government, NGOs and private recyclers were identified as essential stakeholders after an analysis of stakeholders. Their study suggests policy reform, targeted incentives, investment in infrastructure, and behavioural reorientation to ensure that the e-waste recycling systems in Bhavnagar are safe, inclusive, and sustainable.