The Circular Economy of Computing: Tackling E-Waste with Design Innovation

Abstract

The exponential growth of computing technology has accelerated electronic waste generation, posing significant environmental and resource depletion challenges. A circular economy approach offers a sustainable framework by promoting product longevity, modular design, component reuse, and responsible recycling. Advances in eco-friendly materials, repairable hardware architectures, and AI-driven lifecycle management are transforming how computing devices are designed, manufactured, and retired. This study explores current innovations, global best practices, and policy-driven strategies aimed at reducing e-waste in the computing sector. It further identifies research opportunities for integrating sustainability into computing hardware design, ensuring technological growth aligns with environmental stewardship.

Keywords: Circular Economy, E-Waste Management, Sustainable Computing, Hardware Design, Resource Efficiency