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A Systematic Approach to Substantiating the Effectiveness of Waste Management Systems

Author

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  • Lyudmila Korshunova

    (College of Economics & Management, Leninskiy Prospekt 4, B-1112, NUST MISIS, Moscow 119991, Russia)

  • Sofia Boichenko

    (College of Basic Professional Studies, Leninskiy Prospekt 6, NUST MISIS, Moscow 119991, Russia)

Abstract

This study addresses the growing global concern regarding electronic waste (e-waste) management, focusing on the challenges and potential solutions within the Russian Federation. This study employs a systematic approach, statistical analysis, and comparative studies to evaluate the current state of e-waste management, including its collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal. Data from Rosprirodnadzor and other regulatory bodies were analyzed to assess the dynamics of e-waste generation, recycling rates, and the implementation of best available technologies (BATs) through integrated environmental permits (IEPs). The study findings reveal a significant increase in e-waste generation (from 87,832 tons in 2019 to 113,372 tons in 2022, but decreased to 82,965 tons in 2023), with only a fraction being properly recycled (the amount of waste processed has decreased significantly: from 79,616 tons in 2019 to 11,569 tons in 2023), and highlight the inefficiencies in existing regional waste management systems (including monopolistic operators and inefficient infrastructure, with just six certified e-waste recyclers operating nationally). This study concludes that a comprehensive, regionally tailored e-waste management system, supported by financial mechanisms such as parafiscal charges, is essential for improving recycling rates and reducing the environmental impacts of e-waste. Key recommendations include QR-code labeling for traceability, expanded collection networks, and BAT-aligned permits to meet the 65% collection target set by EU Directive 2012/19/EU. Our findings underscore the urgency of scaling recycling capacity—currently 481,935 tons/year nationally—to match annual e-waste generation (1.4 million tons). The proposed system emphasizes the prioritization of ecological over economic considerations, aiming to create an effective system for e-waste management in Russia. The proposed hypothesis includes an effective e-waste management system that can be established through BAT-based processes, financial incentives, and systemic regional integration—but it requires empirical validation under real-world conditions. To achieve this, it is necessary to conduct a pilot implementation in a selected region. A pilot with partial infrastructure exists in Moscow (e.g., Ecopolis Corporation’s facilities) and integrates disjointed processes (collection → sorting → recycling) while monitoring key metrics (e.g., volume processed, cost per ton, stakeholder compliance). A 3-year evaluation period would provide actionable data for a nationwide rollout.

Suggested Citation

  • Lyudmila Korshunova & Sofia Boichenko, 2025. "A Systematic Approach to Substantiating the Effectiveness of Waste Management Systems," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-19, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:10:p:4337-:d:1653283
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Salma Taqi Ghulam & Hatem Abushammala, 2023. "Challenges and Opportunities in the Management of Electronic Waste and Its Impact on Human Health and Environment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-22, January.
    2. Abhishek Nandan & Albin C. Suresh & Parth Saole & S. Amulya Jeevanasai & Ramprasad Chandrasekaran & Lucas Meili & Nur Izyan Wan Azelee & Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian, 2023. "An Integrated Approach for Electronic Waste Management—Overview of Sources of Generation, Toxicological Effects, Assessment, Governance, and Mitigation Approaches," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(24), pages 1-19, December.
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