In today’s fast-moving technological era, the problem of electronic waste (e-waste) is getting more and more serious. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, published jointly by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), global e-waste is being generated at a rate of 2.6 million tonnes per year, an increase of 82% since 2010, with the total amount reaching an all-time high of 62 million tonnes in 2022. Worryingly, less than a quarter of this is recycled. As the quest for new technology continues, individuals and businesses are constantly updating their equipment, resulting in large amounts of old equipment and components being disposed of in landfill sites. This phenomenon highlights the urgent need for technology manufacturers to focus on circular economy principles in order to address this environmental challenge and promote sustainable development.
Planned obsolescence the norm
In many industries, planned obsolescence strategies have become the norm. Whilst this practice is profitable for companies, it also results in a large number of electronic devices being disposed of at the end of their life cycle. This ‘fast-consumption’ model has led to an explosion of e-waste, putting enormous pressure on the environment. The traditional linear economic model of ‘produce-consume-dispose’ is becoming more and more unsustainable as electronic products are being replaced. The concept of circular economy aims to provide an effective solution to reduce the amount of e-waste going to landfills by extending the lifespan of electronic components.
Manufacturers recycle resources by taking back old parts and re-melting them to be used as raw materials for new products. This approach not only prevents old parts from being disposed of in landfills, but also promotes resource conservation. By upgrading and reusing components that still have efficient functions, manufacturers are able to minimise waste and save raw materials and energy in the production process.
Optimising production processes and preventive maintenance
In the electronics manufacturing industry, sustainability requires optimised production processes. By introducing efficient production techniques, not only can product quality be improved, but the service life of components can be significantly extended. When each component reaches its optimum performance in an optimised production process, consumers will enjoy the value of the product for a longer period of time. In addition, the implementation of a preventive maintenance strategy marks a fundamental change in production facilities. By implementing preventive maintenance, the probability of production equipment failures is reduced, frequent downtime for repairs is minimised, and the profitability of the company is improved.
While these strategies require some initial investment, manufacturers should recognise that this investment will be worthwhile in the long term. Effective maintenance and optimisation processes can reduce failure rates and increase productivity, thereby reducing overall operating costs.
Adaptation of internal and external operations
Implementing circular economy principles requires the involvement of all employees, with the leadership team guiding the efforts of all departments. This requires updating internal operational processes to ensure that every employee is working towards greener production. Research has shown that for companies that adopt circular economy principles, internal changes have a far greater impact than external factors. The new policy will guide all employees towards sustainable production and ensure that every employee is involved.
In addition, as internal green policies shift, the external operating model of electronic component manufacturers will change as well. Companies will have to build strong relationships with suppliers that produce more durable materials and eliminate planned obsolescence of component products. Refurbishment and remanufacturing will become important strategies for screening new suppliers. If brands can offer product take-back services to support technology companies in implementing these measures, then this will remove a key concern for leadership on the path to advancing the environmentalisation of technology components.
Exploring industry opportunities

The electronic components manufacturing industry will move towards sustainability as companies progressively overcome the challenges of environmental transformation. Companies that adopt circular economy principles can further drive change by creating economic benefits for their suppliers. Closed-loop supply chain partners are more than just a link in the production process, they can contribute to a broader circular economy system.
If a large manufacturer of electronic components announces that it will only work with companies that prioritise the implementation of sustainable measures, partners will take note of this movement. In order to establish a partnership with this tech giant, they may adopt more standards of circular economy practices, driving an overall transformation of the industry.
The electronics manufacturing industry is attracting more potential partners as environmentally friendly measures become more prevalent. In the process, electronic component companies need to focus on building strong relationships with suppliers that offer sustainable materials. This focus will not only impress consumers, but also drive change in the industry and streamline the product manufacturing process. With fewer component materials being transported between partners, companies can make the green transition more quickly.
The challenge of job creation
Job creation is another challenge in implementing environmentally friendly production methods. Establishing co-operation with suppliers that fit the brand’s philosophy may lead to an increased demand for production skills. As a result, these suppliers will need to recruit and train employees with skills in electronics recycling and refurbishment. While it will take some time to create new positions to accommodate the elevated production rates, the investment will be worth it.
Employees with these skills will help companies integrate more efficiently into the circular economy. The study also shows that circular economy principles have created jobs in a number of industries, although most of these positions are entry- to mid-level positions. In electronics manufacturing, companies committed to environmental change will undoubtedly provide more employment opportunities, regardless of the experience required for circular economy positions. As green technologies develop and consumer preference for sustainable products increases, the electronics industry is poised for even greater growth.
Conclusion
The e-waste crisis is imminent and the goal of sustainable development can only be realised through collaboration and innovation from multiple parties. By implementing the principles of a circular economy, companies will not only reduce their environmental impact, but will also be able to take advantage of the marketplace in the future. By actively participating in this transformation, the technology industry will usher in a brighter future of growth while protecting the planet. In the face of this major challenge, businesses, governments and consumers need to work together to build a greener, more sustainable world.