To Recycle or Not to Recycle? Factors Affecting Malaysian Residents’ Intention for Recycling E-Waste

Abstract

E-waste refers to all types of electrical and electronic equipment disposed of by the user. E-waste contains bromine, toxic gases, toxic metals, biologically active substances, acids, plastics, and plastic adhesives; where these substances are very toxic and dangerous to humans and the environment. In Malaysia, e-waste management is an immense problem in line with the increase in population, living standards, and industrial activity. Therefore, this study aims to determine the extent to which information, incentives, and attitude could influence e-waste recycling intention among the Malaysian public. This study used a quantitative method and random sampling and received 314 completed questionnaires, resulting in an 81.8% response rate. The results show a significant positive relationship between information, incentives, attitude, and e-waste recycling intention. Results also show that incentives are the most significant factor influencing the public's e-waste recycling intention. In conclusion, several suggestions have been put forward to help improve e-waste recycling practices among the Malaysian community.

Mendukung Matlamat Ekonomi Kitaran: Belia Dan Pembudayaaan Kitar Semula Plastik

“…Seterusnya, mengubah tingkah laku manusia adalah amat sukar, dan kajian menunjukkan bahawa manusia memerlukan bantuan untuk beralih daripada niat kepada tindakan (Noor et al, 2023). Kajian menunjukkan bahawa halangan yang paling biasa untuk mengitar semula pembungkusan plastik adalah ketidakpastian mengenai plastik yang boleh dikitar semula (Ebner & Lacovidou, 2021).…”

Households Intention to Formally Dispose E-waste Using Theory Planned Behavior

“…This study applied the definition of perceived behavior control (PBC) provided by Mohamad et al (2022), which is the perception and comprehension of a person's capacity to accomplish an act based on prior experience and the obstacles that must be overcome. Noor et al (2023) contended that one of the most important internal variables for determining people's propensity towards e-waste disposal was their recycling convenience and prior experience. Several studies reported that people's propensity to engage in recycling activities was negatively impacted by perceived inconvenience (Ari & Yilmaz, 2016;Xu et al, 2017).…”

“…Ewaste disposal behavioral intention is defined as residents' propensity and desire to dispose of e-waste in formal disposal sectors in the future. Recycling as one of the formal disposal methods, relates to an individual's attitude towards the environment (Noor et al, 2023). Attitudes strongly influence behaviour, and it is vital to assess attitudes (Otto et al, 2019).…”