ENTREPRENEURIAL SUPPORT FOR E-WASTE RECYCLERS

Sustainable recycling of e-waste bares opportunities as well as obstacles - mainly for small and medium size enterprises. Especially the current challenging market situation for second- hand raw materials makes it difficult for small e-waste recyclers to operate in a sustainable manner. Numerous studies have been conducted to define the required framework conditions in order to operate an e-waste recycling plant in an economically and environmentally sound manner. Besides policy measurements, enforcement of legislation and financing schemes, sustainable business models are key factors. In order to support entrepreneurs to set-up sustainable e-waste recycling plants, the Dismantling- and Recycling-Centre in cooperation with the World Resources Forum and other international organizations, developed various tools. The Business Plan Calculation Tool supports entrepreneurs to set-up an economic viable e-waste recycling business. The Dismantling Guide provides guidance for technicians to dismantle appliances in an effective and efficient manner. The Recyclers Information Centre is a platform under development that will provide business operators with information to improve their ongoing practices in terms of dismantling, component harvesting, reuse operations and downstream options.