Keywords
Sustainability
Knowledge
Attitude
Practice
How to Cite
Abstract
The Circular Economy (CE) has emerged as a significant sustainable alternative to the conventional linear economic model, particularly in consumer electronics, which faces escalating challenges of e-waste due to rapid technological advancements. This study examines the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of youth in Lucknow, aged 18 to 26, towards CE principles in consumer electronics based on an exploratory survey design with a sample of 400 university students. This research utilises a self-developed structured questionnaire and incorporates quantitative analyses such as reliability, frequency, factor, and chi-square tests. The findings reveal that knowledge factors included awareness of circular economy concepts (44.5% variance) and local recycling processes. Attitudes were shaped by beliefs in product longevity and willingness to support recycling policies. Practices were influenced by eco-friendly disposal and regular repairs (68.7% variance). Demographics, particularly age, gender, and education, significantly impacted knowledge and attitudes, while university type showed no significant effect on practices. The results indicate that fostering an understanding of CE can shape positive attitudes and encourage responsible behaviours among youth, thus promoting more sustainable e-waste management and facilitating the shift toward CE. This research contributes to the current body of literature by emphasising the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable practices. It informs policymakers about the necessary strategies to effectively promote CE principles in Lucknow's consumer electronics sector for better environmental outcomes, ultimately benefiting consumers and the community.
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