As the demand for global electronics increases, so does the problem of e-waste dumping in developing countries surges. Although both Ghana and Pakistan play various roles in the global e-waste trade movement, both countries are under-researched. The purpose of this research is to generate knowledge about consumer awareness and behavioural intentions towards e-waste disposal. 

To fulfil the purpose of the study, quantitative research was conducted in both Ghana and Pakistan to find answers to our two research questions based on a convenience sample size 204 participants from both countries.

The level of consumer awareness regarding locally generated e-waste and imported e-waste greatly varies. In Ghana, the level of awareness of imported e-waste predominantly ranges from ‘aware’ to ‘very much aware’ as opposed to the level of awareness of locally generated e-waste which predominantly ranges from ‘less aware’ to ‘aware’. In Pakistan, both the level of consumer awareness of locally generated and imported e-waste are very moderately low as compared to Ghana. The availability of recycling points and increased e-waste awareness campaigns strongly influences consumers’ recycling behavioural intentions as supported by Planned Behavioural Control from the TPB theory. However, some other factors, namely subjective norms, values, and beliefs from the VBN theory as well as biospheric value orientations also strongly influence consumers’ recycling behavioural intentions.

To be able to promote e-waste recycling practices and increase e-waste recycling behavioural intentions, for governmental organizations, NGOs advocating for sustainability and proponents of circular economy, the creation of more awareness will be key and the provision of disposal resources very unmissable. Furthermore, governments need to team up with electronic manufacturers to curb the flow and also thoroughly scrutinize imports that are shipped into their countries as e-waste imports are increasingly being disguised as second-hand goods by importers to pass through customs without any detection.