Case Study Switzerland

The case study Switzerland was launched in September 2003. Initial results on ecological impact assessment are available for the SWICO Recycling System. The case study was concluded by mid 2004.

A simplified model was developed in order to describe the complex cross linking of causalities in the recycling system and its interaction with humans and the environment. A look at the following three-shell model should make the situation more easily comprehensible.

Humans and the environment are at the center of the model. The e-waste recycling system has direct and indirect impacts on labor, health and the environment

The recycling system is described through systemic and technological elements. The material and financial flows along the whole product life cycle are presented qualitatively. Detailed process analyses are shown for the relevant processing technologies.

The recycling system is surrounded by a general framework. The prevailing economic situation, politics, legislation and its enforcement, science and technology, and cultural aspects influence the interactions within the system. This framework is again affected by changes in labor, health and environmental impacts. There is feedback from the center to the framework.