Electronic waste (e-waste) is among the fastest-growing waste streams globally, containing hazardous and valuable materials with environmental impacts. Refurbished Electronic Devices (REDs), such as laptops and smartphones, support sustainability and the circular economy by promoting responsible resource use. This study examines factors influencing young (from Generation Z) consumers’ purchase intentions of REDs in the Netherlands. Based on literature, key factors include environmental awareness, social acceptance, seller/brand reputation, affordability, perceived risk, and availability. A questionnaire was developed to measure these variables, with hypotheses positing positive correlations with purchase intention. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that environmental awareness, social acceptance, and seller/brand reputation significantly and positively influence consumers’ willingness to buy REDs. Conversely, perceived risks and affordability were not decisive factors. The findings suggest that pro-environmental attitudes, peer influence, and brand reputation strongly shape purchase decisions for REDs among youth. This research enhances understanding of consumers’ perceptions of REDs and offers insights into designing marketing strategies, value propositions, and circular business models that promote sustainable consumption and support the transition toward a circular economy.

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Navigating E-Waste and Circular Economy: Understanding Young Consumers' Acceptance and Purchase Intentions Toward Refurbished Electronics in the Netherlands

  • Henry Wai Leong Ho,
  • Timber Haaker,
  • Indrapriya Kularatne

摘要

Electronic waste (e-waste) is among the fastest-growing waste streams globally, containing hazardous and valuable materials with environmental impacts. Refurbished Electronic Devices (REDs), such as laptops and smartphones, support sustainability and the circular economy by promoting responsible resource use. This study examines factors influencing young (from Generation Z) consumers’ purchase intentions of REDs in the Netherlands. Based on literature, key factors include environmental awareness, social acceptance, seller/brand reputation, affordability, perceived risk, and availability. A questionnaire was developed to measure these variables, with hypotheses positing positive correlations with purchase intention. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that environmental awareness, social acceptance, and seller/brand reputation significantly and positively influence consumers’ willingness to buy REDs. Conversely, perceived risks and affordability were not decisive factors. The findings suggest that pro-environmental attitudes, peer influence, and brand reputation strongly shape purchase decisions for REDs among youth. This research enhances understanding of consumers’ perceptions of REDs and offers insights into designing marketing strategies, value propositions, and circular business models that promote sustainable consumption and support the transition toward a circular economy.