Research On WEEE Informal Collection Channel Management

For reverse supply chain management in China, the existence of informal collectors has been a serious problem, which interrupts the normal order of end-of-life product collection. To achieve the research objective of administering informal collection channels, our research focuses on dual-channel collection system governance based on the realistic condition of developing countries. Based on the practical problem, which exists in China and some other developing countries, this thesis explores solutions to the current recycling process in practical operations.To be specific, the main content of the thesis is summarized as follows. Firstly we propose the research problem of governance of informal collection channels. Then, the characteristics of informal collection channels are explored and the influencing factors of consumers'collection participation are studied by empirical research. Based on the respective characteristics of two collection channels (formal channel and informal channel) and channel preference of consumers, we establish quantitative models to describe the research problem and solve them by adopting the game theory. For the first time to apply consumer choice model in collection channel management, the dual-channel collection system is analyzed and he optimal solutions and corresponding analyses in three governance modes. Some properties of parameters and decision variables are derived in this thesis. In addition, in the dual-channel collection system, the different bargaining powers of formal and informal collectors are considered, and the optimal solutions under this situation are obtained. Based on relevant research conclusions, the research provides theoretical foundation and policy suggestions for the construction and management of waste product collection system in China.Compared to the existing research, the innovation points of the research are as follows.1) To the best of our knowledge, our research is the first one to apply consumer choice model into the collection channel management. The channel preference to formal collection channels of consumers is considered in consumer choice model.2) Our research is also the first one to model the two kinds of collection models quantitatively based on their own environmental characteristics of recycling process. We regard the environmental processing standard as the most important difference between the two recycling channels.3) Incorporation policy, one of governance models of informal collection channels, is firstly applied in dual-channel reverse supply chain research. The results and conclusions of this research provide new ways and guidelines for informal collection channel governance.