Qatar University ( QU) has introduced a novel initiative titled ‘E-Tadweer’ a circular ecosystem for the management of green electronics specifically for Qatar’s needs.
E-Tadweer’ aims to develop an integrated framework that combines digital platforms, AI-driven recommendations, and physical infrastructure, according to a group of researchers from the College of Engineering, QU.
The initiative aims to rethink how e-waste is managed nationwide, with the development of a mobile application to recommend optimal circular practices for each device, according to their research paper published in the university research magazine. Moreover, physical kiosks and a dedicated digital marketplace will be deployed to encourage the exchange of electronic devices, with QU as the pilot location and QU has already implemented the pilot phase in the campus. These technological solutions are complemented by targeted awareness campaigns and educational seminars, steering Qatar towards a zero-waste electronics industry.
The initiative was deployed by Tala Jano, research assistant, Aya Nabil Sayed, research assistant, Mohmmed Mosarrof Hossen, research assistant, Prof Ridha Hamila, professor of Electrical Engineering, Prof Faycal Bensaali, professor of Electrical Engineering, Prof Farid Touati, professor of Electrical Engineering Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering – Qatar University.
“With the rapid technological advancement comes an equally critical responsibility to manage the growing volume of electrical and electronic equipment reaching the end of its lifecycle. In the absence of co-ordinated systems for reuse, refurbishment, or recycling, this discarded equipment turns into what is commonly known as Electronic Waste, creating mounting environmental and sustainability challenges,” said the researchers.
According to the researchers, an intelligent decision-making can be made through the development of a mobile application that recommends the most effective circular strategy for each device based on its condition. It will promote recycling and refurbishment behaviour through the deployment of physical kiosks and a digital marketplace, including targeted five kiosks strategically located across QU to make sustainable disposal convenient and rewarding.
Additionally, it aims to engage stakeholders across sectors, with a strong emphasis on educating and empowering youth, to build societal awareness and shape environmentally responsible behaviours.
The researchers note that in Qatar, e-waste poses both an environmental challenge and a strategic opportunity, containing valuable and hazardous materials that demand regulated management. So the initiative has adopted a multidisciplinary approach that blends technological innovation with practical implementation to establish a holistic e-waste management system.
“The initiative is anchored in the 6R principles: Reduce, Reliability, Repair, Reuse, Refurbish, and Recycle, integrating powered tools to support sustainable practices across the electronic product lifecycle,” noted the researchers.
AI algorithms then analyse and classify the items by type and condition, generating a detailed report and quotation for the user. Following this, collection is scheduled, and devices deemed suitable are reintegrated into a digital marketplace for resale, promoting reuse and extending product lifecycles.
The pilot phase includes the deployment of smart physical kiosks to enable convenient device drop-off. The system integrates geolocation features and a reward-based credit mechanism to encourage active participation. Overall, E-Tadweer aims to achieve a 25% reduction in e-waste and attract at least 1,000 users to the platform.
E-Tadweer puts strong emphasis on a human-centric approach by building awareness and sharing knowledge through education. To ensure lasting impact, the project will include a series of outreach and training initiatives, such as summer schools, workshops, and capacity-building sessions.
E-Tadweer underscores several critical policies, institutional, and operational gaps within the evolving e-waste management landscape. Key challenges include the lack of structured and accessible data, fragmented management of end-of-life electronics across multiple stakeholders, and limited public engagement. It places strong emphasis on behavioural change and community engagement. It integrates educational initiatives to raise awareness, strategically located kiosks to provide accessible drop-off points, and reward-based mechanisms to incentivise responsible behaviours.