E-waste and the sustainable organisation: Griffith University's approach to e-waste

Abstract

Purpose - This paper seeks to provide details of Griffith University's (GU) approach for sustainably dealing with electronic waste (e-waste) and the benefits of using the e-waste programme as a valuable educational case study for ESD. Design/methodology/approach - The e-waste programme is explained with reference to key resources and literature, so as to provide a practical approach for any organisation looking to sustainably manage its e-waste stream. The rationale and structure for the e-waste educational case study is also presented so that other academics may use it as a template or study aid within their own teaching. Findings - The paper provides references to web resources and GU internal resources so that readers can access valuable information, and to show how those resources can be applied to their own organisation. The paper also identifies and discusses the factors which may hinder the implementation of a sustainable e-waste programme. Research limitations/implications - The paper has been written to be as succinct and as accessible to readers as possible and, as such, has not presented each of the aspects of the sustainable e-waste programme in depth. This information, for those requiring more detail, is accessible through the resources presented. Practical implications - The paper is a useful source on how e-wastes can be sustainably managed by Universities and presents a modelled approach. Originality/value - This paper highlights an individual response to an increasingly complex and potentially polluting and unsustainable waste stream. It provides a practical institution-wide approach for dealing with e-wastes; and in particular, raises the awareness of the issues associated with e-waste to those institutions who may not be aware.