Innovation in the reverse supply chain of electrical and electronic waste: a study on information systems and tracking technologies

Abstract

In this study, the contribution of information systems and tracking technologies to the reverse logistics of electronic and electrical waste chains is analyzed. The research was based on a case study in the Brazilian context, incorporating the electronics supply chain. The results show that reverse logistics do not use the technologies and systems implemented in direct logistics. Although tracking technologies can make disassembly and recycling more efficient, the possibility of increased costs remains, and does not contribute to increased sales and profitability. Furthermore, resistance by representatives of the electronics sector to adhere to the sectoral agreement—established by the National Solid Waste Policy (NSWP) in 2010 but signed only at the end of 2019—contributed to companies postponing investments in information systems and technologies tracking in Brazil.

Keywords

• environmental innovation
• tracking technologies
• supply chain
• reverse logistics
• waste electrical and electronic