| This paper will look at the issue of information and communication technology's contribution to the global e-Waste situation. A systems based analysis will evaluate the positive and negative impact of information communication technology (ICT) products, analyze regulations in place to address the negative impacts and finally, evaluate mainstream business models contribution to e-Waste and propose alternative revenue driving strategies that can reduce material consumption and waste.;The relationship between ICT and the e-waste industry is relevant because the world continues to build on its reliance on technology. Consumer behavior around product renewal and the rapid introduction of new technologies has shortened the product lifecycle on average from 4--6 years to 2--4 years. Additionally, as developing nations actively work to bridge the digital divide to promote economic and social advancement, this problem will only become more complex. There is an opportunity for partnerships between researchers, academics, NGOs, governments and the private sector to address and mitigate the current impact and reduce the future impact of ICT e-waste and e-waste recycling by looking at the manufacturing and production principles of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).;Keywords: Cradle-2-Cradle, e-Waste, Information Communication Technology, Basel Convention, Planned Obsolescence. |
