Reverse Logistics of Electronic Waste: A Systematic Review of Recent Methodological Approaches

Abstract

The rapid increase in electrical and electronic equipment consumption has led to a significant rise in electronic waste (e-waste), posing environmental and logistical challenges. This systematic review identifies and analyzes the main methodologies employed in the reverse logistics of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), highlighting the most frequently applied approaches, associated technologies, and the materials most recovered. A total of 61 scientific articles published in the last five years were selected based on thematic relevance and methodological rigor, applying PICO and PRISMA strategies to ensure a transparent and structured review process. Results reveal that case studies, optimization models, and bibliometric analyses are the predominant methodologies. Copper and precious metals, such as gold, silver, and palladium are the most frequently recovered materials, followed by plastics and glass. Regional disparities were noted: while advanced recovery technologies are more prevalent in developed countries, Latin America continues to face structural limitations hindering their adoption. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current practices in WEEE reverse logistics and serves as a knowledge base for designing informed public policies and sustainable recycling strategies.