Enhancing circular economic activities of e-waste pickers in South Africa: using Korten's four generations strategies as framework

Abstract

E-waste pickers play a valuable role in the circular economy and divert waste from landfills. Despite their contributions to the economy, informal e-waste pickers work in very adverse conditions. With a view to improving their livelihoods and working conditions and possibly increasing their integration, Korten's four generations framework is used as theoretical lens. A total of814 surveys were completed across South Africa. The main findings highlight the collecting, dismantling and sorting and pre-processing activities. The main motivation for the individual participants to move beyond collection was monetary: the more processed the goods, the higher the price. Despite exposing themselves to hazardous practices during pre-processing, the majority of respondents were still earning below the minimum wage level. Korten's four generations of strategies are found to provide valuable guidance on how to think and act when supporting e-waste pickers towards increased integration in the waste systems and the circular economy.