Applying a stock-based model for estimating the amount of personal computer waste

Abstract

The fourth industrial revolution has triggered an increase in the demand for information and communication technology equipment. Computers are useful in modern days and it is reflected in the ownership of these appliances which experienced steady growth in recent years. In 2017, about 20% of Indonesian households possess these devices. Undoubtedly, it will correspond to the escalating volume of computer waste. Furthermore, it raises concerns since valuable as well as toxic materials are embedded in e-waste. On the other hand, proper e-waste management is absent in the country. The current study aims to quantify the amount of computer waste generated in Indonesia by applying a stock-based model. The flow model is developed based on the secondary data of household ownership of computers, and the usage period is estimated using the lifetime distribution. The result indicates that computer lifespan in the country is 4.51 years. Besides, the 15 years prediction shows that in 2012 and 2026 the quantity of computer waste is about 1.16 million and 7.47 million respectively. It implies that the amount of e-waste will continue to increase. Therefore, it is imperative to design and implement sustainable e-waste management.