THE FUTURE OF ELECTRONIC WASTE RECYCLING IN THE UNITED STATES: Obstacles and Domestic Solutions

This study explores the future of electronic waste recycling in the United States, addressing the challenges and proposing domestic solutions. The rapid advancement of technology has resulted in an increasing amount of e-waste generated, with significant discrepancies in production rates between the U.S. and Europe. The objective is to analyze the end-of-life management of e-waste, highlighting the importance of recovering valuable resources while managing hazardous materials. A qualitative methodology is employed, utilizing existing literature and case studies to examine current practices in e-waste recycling. Results indicate that effective management strategies, including reuse, refurbishment, and recycling, are crucial for maximizing resource recovery and minimizing environmental impacts. The findings also demonstrate that integrated processes for treating e-waste can reduce loss of valuable metals and provide economic benefits. Ultimately, addressing obstacles such as economic feasibility and technological limitations will be essential for enhancing the sustainability of electronic waste management practices in the U.S.