This paper maps several dimensions of the e-waste problem and provides a snapshot into future challenges. It looks into how the use of e-products and management of e-waste could evolve. The goal is to initiate public discussions on these unforeseen challenges and opportunities, in order for the political agendas of governments and businesses to address such issues early on.
This is done based on a) a comprehensive understanding of the elements linked to the e-waste problem and b) an outlook of the problem given possible future scenarios. Given the unpredictable nature of technological development, it is impossible to precisely quantify the future of e-waste. This paper uses a qualitative approach and intuitive logics to conceptualise future scenarios. It is meant to be a thought-provoking exercise for all actors in the e-waste arena including reseachers, policy makers, businesses, e-waste managers, non-profit organisations, and everyday consumers of e-products.