Sparking Awareness in Lincoln Electronic Waste Trends and Habits: A Student Behavioral Analysis

Nebraska is recognized as one of the few states that have not established any laws or practices managing electronic waste. Along with no e-waste management laws, there is also a lack of studies discussing the behavioral trends and habits towards electronic devices and how to dispose of them once they are unable to function. Continuing to ignore the choice of recycling electronics results in further damage towards the environment, human and animal health, as well as an economic opportunity of a growing market. This study focuses on the trends and habits of electronic consumption, usage, and disposal amongst students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The data was collected through an online survey-questionnaire given out to the participants and analyzed alongside past works to see if the behaviors and actions of UNL students are similar to those in other communities. Results showed that out of fifty-two responses, thirty participants stated they tend to store older devices at home rather than dispose of them to an electronic facility or waste bin. The survey also revealed an overwhelmingly positive response in wanting to recycle electronic devices, whether the students have participated in the past or would like to if the opportunity is available to them. Further research was done to suggest potential solutions on curbing e-waste from the landfill. This goes to show that e-waste management is beginning to catch the public’s attention and furthers the reason to increase the accessibility of proper electronic disposal to students and citizens in the Lincoln area