Material Flow Analysis of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment in Zamboanga City, Philippines: Current Practices and Future Opportunities

Abstract

This study addresses the Sustainable Development Goal 12, management of materials that harms society and the environment. Material Flow Analysis (MFA) of the waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) are primary requirements for comprehensive monitoring and disposal of electronic waste.  In Zamboanga City, Philippines, the collected waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) for 2022 was analyzed and interpreted. The analysis is divided into four primary stages: recycling, disposal, reuse/resell, and storage. According to the findings, 20.02 tons of WEEE were produced, of which 8.01 tons were held, 5.01 tons were recycled or resold, 4.00 tons were reused, and 3.00 tons were disposed of. The composition study of a few chosen WEEE components, such as CPUs, monitors, and printers, reveals significant amounts of recoverable elements, such as iron, aluminum, copper, polymers, and circuit boards. Three types of devices had the highest material recovery efficiency: CPUs (97.607%), displays (91.853%), and printers (98.796%). The study highlights the hazards that informal WEEE processing poses to the environment and public health. It also advocates for regulation and the formal integration of informal sector operations into the WEEE management system. Among the suggestions include raising public awareness, investing in recycling infrastructure, and enhancing data collecting. The study concludes that a comprehensive WEEE management plan supported by robust regulatory frameworks and investments in formal recycling facilities is necessary to balance Zamboanga City's economic interests, public health, and environmental protection.