Work

Strengthening e-waste governance: A decision framework for sustainable transboundary movements under the Swiss-Ghana Amendments

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The Swiss-Ghana Amendments to the Basel Convention mark a significant milestone in global e-waste (electronic waste) management, requiring Prior Informed Consent (PIC) for all transboundary movements of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), regardless of their hazard classification. However, developing nations encounter substantial challenges in adhering to these amendments due to regulatory gaps, limited infrastructure, and an increasing influx of illicit e-waste imports. This study uses Malaysia as a case study to evaluate the readiness of developing nations to implement amendments, highlighting transferable solutions and recommendations. This study employs a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative thematic analysis and bibliometric mapping to analyze academic literature, official reports, and international case studies. The findings reveal that while Malaysia has foundational policies in place, significant challenges remain in addressing informal recycling practices, improving enforcement mechanisms, and building the institutional capacity to implement PIC procedures effectively. This study identifies key areas for improvement, including regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, and enhanced monitoring systems. To address these issues, this study proposes a six-key Integrated Decision Framework that emphasizes legislative and regulatory updates, infrastructure development, international cooperation, capacity building and training, public awareness and engagement, and robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. Although tailored to Malaysia, the framework offers transferable solutions to align e-waste management systems with the Swiss-Ghana Amendments, providing a pathway for developing nations to strengthen regulatory readiness, mitigate environmental risks, and contribute to global sustainability.

Source: Chinese Journal of Population Resources and Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.cjpre.2025.07.003

Authors: Pursatul Faradillah, Al Amin Mohamed Sultan, Khairul Fadzli Samat, Thahirah Kamarulzaman

Institutions: Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Kementerian Sumber Asli dan Kelestarian Alam

Language: English

Topic: Recycling and Waste Management Techniques

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production, Partnerships for the goals

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka