Recycling of waste electronic and electrical equipment: reducing the impact of China on the rare earth element markets

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School of Business | Bachelor's thesis
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Date
2018
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
(Mikkeli) Bachelor’s Program in International Business
Language
en
Pages
38 + 8
Series
Abstract
Objectives The main objectives of this study were to explore the possibilities of reducing China’s impact on the rare earth element markets by recycling waste electronic and electrical equipment. Specifically, this thesis focuses on the optimization of recycling networks as a tool to increase the amount of secondary-sourced rare earth elements. The factors that affect the recycling input of waste electronic and electrical equipment are investigated, and solutions on how it can be improved will be based on the findings. Summary The global demand for rare earth elements is almost completely supplied by one nation, China. The myriad applications and low substitutability of the elements make them a critical group, which is why alternative sources must be developed. This thesis studies the possibility of secondary mining of rare earths from consumer electronics as a solution to the Chinese monopoly. The practical side of Finnish recycling operators is combined with a theoretical view of an expert to gain an inclusive depiction of the industry and its constraints. Conclusions The amount of recycled consumer electronics is directly linked to consumer awareness of the importance and possibilities of recycling. The voluntary participation of consumers must be incentivized by economic and environmental incentives, while simultaneously reducing the constraints to recycling. These constraints are identified as cost of recycling, lack of knowledge, poor design of devices, and thefts from treatment facilities. As these areas are improved, the impact of China will be mitigated.
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Thesis advisor
Sillanpää, Mika
Keywords
sustainability, China, recycling, circular economy, waste disposal
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