User Behaviour Before Mobile Phone Disposal and Recycling in the State of São Paulo

Abstract

Given the privatization of the Telebras system in 1998 and the constant development of new technologies, mobile phone consumption picked up in the form of a craze in Brazil to the extent of in 2010 mile stoning 100% density, i.e., more than 190 million units were then in use within the domestic market. On the other hand, it seems appropriate to wonder what happens to this equipment once their lifecycle ends. Sheltered by this context, the prime purpose of this study is not only to evaluate user behaviour in the State of São Paulo in as much as mobile phone disposal and recycling is concerned, but also to contribute with the improvement of the current scenario. To this effect, some aspects of existing Brazilian mobile telephony market post-consumption reverse logistics practices were diagnosed. A quantitative exploratory survey centred on São Paulo State respondents was also conducted so as to pinpoint their behaviour in terms of mobile phone recycling and assess the factors that influence their disposal and recycling. Outcomes unveiled that although 60% of respondents are aware of the fact that mobile phones are recyclable, only 7% have so done with their old phones. Finally, the study sought to contribute with suggested mobile phone market actions so as to increase post-consumption recycling.

Keywords

• Usuário. Comportamento. Descarte. Reciclagem. Aparelhos celulares.