Analysing Consumer Behaviour Patterns and Institutional Practices Towards E-Waste Disposal in Patna

Abstract

With rising per capita income and improving living standards among Patna residents, the consumption of electronic goods has increased significantly. Rapid consumerism, coupled with the frequent introduction of advanced models of electronic appliances, has led consumers to replace older devices more often—thereby contributing to a continuous rise in e-waste generation. According to the WHO (2025), e-waste is the fastest-growing stream of solid waste globally. An IIT Patna report further indicates that Patna is the largest consumer of electronic goods in Bihar. The city hosts numerous IT companies, major corporate houses, business enterprises, and shopping malls. Although there are 142 authorised collection centers listed by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board and two electronic-waste recycling units in Patna, the infrastructure for formal e-waste recycling remains inadequate. While Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are in place in the state, public awareness regarding e-waste disposal and recycling is low. A majority of consumers continue to discard e-waste through raddiwalas operating in the informal sector. This paper analyses consumer behaviour patterns and institutional policies and practices concerning e-waste disposal and management in Patna. The study is based on both primary and secondary data