Circular economy in the electronics industry

the case of the ABC company

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14488/1676-1901.v23i3.5003

Keywords:

Circular Economy, Electronics industry, Reverse Logistics

Abstract

The article investigated the implementation of the circular economy in the Brazilian electronics industry, using the company ABC, which specializes in recycling electronic waste in Sorocaba, São Paulo, as a case study. The main objective was to analyze how the circular economy could be incorporated into the operations of a company in this sector and the impacts generated. The methodology employed was qualitative in nature and used the thematic analysis technique. Interviews were conducted with the company's technical manager and industrial manager, along with a review of the relevant literature. The case study approach was chosen because of its ability to analyze complex research questions in detail, allowing an in-depth understanding of the "how" and "why" of ABC's operations. Preliminary results indicated that ABC plays a key role in promoting the circular economy in the electronics industry, with an approach that ranged from reverse logistics to research and development of new applications for electronic components. The company stands out for its ability to turn waste into valuable resources, reducing waste and environmental impact. However, it also faces challenges, such as the complexity of waste management and the need for awareness and cooperation throughout the value chain. The study contributed to understanding the viability of the circular economy in the electrical and electronics industry.

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Author Biography

Fernando Rodrigo de Souza, Faculdade de Tecnologia de Sorocaba (Fatec SO), Sorocaba, SP, Brasil.

Engenheiro de Produção formado pelo Centro Universitário Nossa Senhora do Patrocínio, Tecnólogo em: Polímeros, Logística e Gestão da Qualidade, obtidas na Fatec-Sorocaba e Gestão Empresarial obtida na Fatec-Itu. Especialização em Engenharia da Qualidade Integrada e Especialização em Lean Manufacturing pela Anhanguera-Sorocaba. MBA em Lean Seis Sigma e Excelência Operacional, MBA em Gestão da Qualidade e Processos e MBA em Gestão Industrial pela FM2S em parceira UMJ - Centro Universitário Mario Pontes Jucá. Master Black Belt, Auditor Líder 9001:2015. Experiência profissional na área de Qualidade Assegurada na Edscha Brasil, Schaeffler Brasil e Saturnia Hawker. Pesquisa nas áreas de reciclagem de materiais, logística reversa, sustentabilidade, economia circular e na interação entre o processo de fabricação, consumo e descarte, especialmente no contexto do pós-consumo.

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Published

2024-02-11

How to Cite

Souza, F. R. de. (2024). Circular economy in the electronics industry: the case of the ABC company. Revista Produção Online, 23(3), 5003 . https://doi.org/10.14488/1676-1901.v23i3.5003