Assessment of Barriers to Effective E-Waste Management in Hotels in Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya

The rapid growth of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) has emerged as a major environmental and public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where, inadequate recycling infrastructure and weak institutional capacity hinder sustainable waste management. Although the hospitality industry is an important generator of e-waste due to its intensive use and frequent replacement of electrical and electronic equipment, empirical evidence on the barriers to its effective management in hotels remains limited, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study assessed the barriers hindering effective e-waste management among classified hotels in Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya.
An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed involving 69 stratified randomly selected hotels and five purposively selected key informants from environmental, public health, tourism, and regulatory institutions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, hierarchical multiple regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA), while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis and integrated through triangulation.
Limited access to licensed e-waste recyclers (91.3%) and inadequate recycling infrastructure (88.4%) emerged as the most prevalent barriers, followed by inadequate staff training (59.4%), high disposal costs (53.6%), limited environmental awareness (53.6%), weak regulatory enforcement (49.3%), and unclear institutional procedures (47.8%). Barriers exhibited a significant negative relationship with effective e-waste management (r = −0.589, p < 0.001) and remained a significant independent predictor after controlling for other explanatory variables (β = −0.247, p = 0.016). Conversely, applicable regulatory frameworks were the strongest positive predictor of effective e-waste management (β = 0.561, p < 0.001). The final hierarchical regression model explained 69.6% of the variance in effective e-waste management (R² = 0.696; Adjusted R² = 0.672; F (5,63) = 28.843, p < 0.001), demonstrating substantial explanatory power. Qualitative findings corroborated the quantitative results by identifying weak institutional coordination, inadequate technical capacity, and insufficient investment in formal recycling systems as persistent systemic constraints.
The findings demonstrate that institutional and structural barriers, rather than operational factors alone, are the principal determinants of effective e-waste management in hotels. This study contributes novel empirical evidence from the hospitality sector in a developing-country context, underscoring the need for integrated policy interventions that strengthen recycling infrastructure, improves access to licensed recyclers, enhances regulatory enforcement, builds organizational capacity through targeted training, and provide economic incentives to support formal e-waste management. The findings also offer practical guidance for policymakers, environmental regulators, and the industry in advancing sustainable e-waste governance and circular economy initiatives.

E-Waste, E-Waste Generation, E-Waste Management, Barriers, Naivasha Sub-County

1. Abdulkadir, A., Ally, B., Remmen, A., Hirsbak, S., & Salukele, F. (2025). Circular Economy Framework for Plastic Waste Management: A Case Study from Coastal Hotels in Zanzibar. Resources, 14(11), 175. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Awasthi, A. K., Iacovidou, E., Awasthi, M. K., Johnson, M., Parajuly, K., Zhao, M., Mishra, S., & Pandey, A. K. (2023). Assessing Strategic Management of E-Waste in Developing Countries. Sustainability, 15(9), 7263. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Awasthi, A. K., & Pandey, A. K. (2026). Circular model turning e-waste into value-added solution for global issue. Waste Management & Research: The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy, 44(2), 101–102. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734242X251407001 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. AZARMI, S., VAZIRI, R., & CİZRELİOĞULLARI, M. N. (2020). Comparison of waste generation rate in different size of hotels (case study of north cyprus). Business & Management Studies: An International Journal, 8(4), 701–722. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Baričević, D., Rajković, I., & Šimunić, M. (2024). Management of electronic medical waste disposal and its impact on the sustainability of the tourism destination. 27th International Congress: Tourism and Hospitality Industry 2024: Trends and Challenges, 131–138. https://repository.fthm.uniri.hr/object/fthm:5915 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Bhutto, M. Y., Rūtelionė, A., Šeinauskienė, B., & Ertz, M. (2023). Exploring factors of e-waste recycling intention: The case of generation Y. Plos One, 18(10), e0287435. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Chachage, B., Yohana, L., Mohamed, M., Budeanu, A., & Furu, P. (2024). Influence of Resources and Training on Solid Waste Management Practices at Hotels in Zanzibar. East African Journal of Management and Business Studies, 4(3), 11–23. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Chiro, J. C., Abila, R., & Thuo, A. (2020). Effects of Liquid Waste Management Approaches in High End Hotels on Wastewater Quality in Sekenani, Masai Mara Game Reserve, Kenya. http://ir-library.mmarau.ac.ke:8080/handle/123456789/10258 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Dias, P., Bernardes, A. M., & Huda, N. (2022). E ‐Waste Management and Practices in Developed and Developing Countries*. In M. E. Holuszko, A. Kumar, & D. C. R. Espinosa (Eds.), Electronic Waste (1st ed., pp. 15–32). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9783527816392.ch2 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

10. Faibil, D., Asante, R., Agyemang, M., Addaney, M., & Baah, C. (2023). Extended producer responsibility in developing economies: Assessment of promoting factors through retail electronic firms for sustainable e-waste management. Waste Management & Research: The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy, 41(1), 117–142. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734242X221105433 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

11. Forti, V., Baldé, C. P., Kuehr, R., & Bel, G. (2020). The global e-waste monitor 2020. United Nations University (UNU), International Telecommunication Union (ITU) & International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), Bonn/Geneva/Rotterdam, 120. https://www.greene.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2020120929.pdf [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

12. Gashi, S., Qosja, E., & Liça, D. (2025). Hotels Industry: An Analysis of Business Approaches and Strategies. Business Strategy Review, 6(1), 240–253. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

13. Getonto, F. O., Kitetu, J., & Maghanga, C. (2021). Assessment of E-waste awareness in medical facilities in Nakuru Town, Kenya. Editon Consortium Journal of Research in Medical and Health Sciences, 1(1), 1–9. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

14. Hasse, A. (2025). Circular economy and sustainable waste management. Latin American Developments in Energy Engineering, 6(2). https://revistascientificas.cuc.edu.co/IDEE/article/view/7073 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

15. Izah, S. C., Stanley, H. O., Richard, G., Sawyer, W. E., & Uwaeme, O. R. (2024). Surface Water Quality: A Statistical Perspective on the Efficacy of Environmental and Human Health Assessment Tools. Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 235(3), 205. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-024-06965-1 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

16. Kamweru, G. (2019). Assessment of Households’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on Solid Waste Management in Nakuru Town [PhD Thesis, University of Nairobi]. http://erepository.uonbi.ac.ke/handle/11295/108757 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

17. Karemeri, M., Nzengya, D. M., & Ndunda, E. (2024). Dynamics of Enablers and Barriers to Hotel Waste Management in Nakuru County, Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 8(9), 52–66. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

18. Kiplagat, S., Odero, D., & Buigutt, S. (2017). E-Waste Management at Egerton University Library, Njoro Campus, Kenya. International Journal of Innovative Research and Development, 6(7). https://www.academia.edu/download/81012673/81308.pdf [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

19. Leavy, P. (2022). Research design: Quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, arts-based, and community-based participatory research approaches. Guilford Publications. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=qUiKEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=how+to+choose+a+research+design&ots=RxLhKjGp5S&sig=YkR5x4TeZtp0kQ4QuOUn3xauo3c [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

20. Liu, K., Tan, Q., Yu, J., & Wang, M. (2023). A global perspective on e-waste recycling. Circular Economy, 2(1), 100028. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cec.2023.100028 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

21. Lohr, S. L. (2021). Sampling: Design and analysis. Chapman and Hall/CRC. https://api.taylorfrancis.com/content/books/mono/download?identifierName=doi&identifierValue=10.1201/9780429298899&type=googlepdf [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

22. Maes, T., & Preston-Whyte, F. (2022). E-waste it wisely: Lessons from Africa. SN Applied Sciences, 4(3), 72. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-022-04962-9 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

23. Manzoor, A. (2020). Designs of mixed method research. In Cognitive Analytics: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications (pp. 95–121). IGI Global. https://www.igi-global.com/chapter/designs-of-mixed-method-research/252022 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

24. Mekolela, A. M., Kiplagat, N., & Tallam, Z. (2025). INFLUENCE OF STAKEHOLDER ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COUNTY INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PLANS IN NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA. African Journal of Emerging Issues, 7(18), 137–152. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

25. Mengich, B. M., Ogendi, G. M., Karanja, A. M., & Nyamira, E. N. (n.d.). Adaptation Strategies to Water Level Variability in Lake Naivasha, Kenya. Retrieved July 1, 2026, from https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nyamira-Enock-Nyamorambo/publication/400049209_Adaptation_Strategies_to_Water_Level_Variability_in_Lake_Naivasha_Kenya/links/697498e8f5b9fd48849bb086/Adaptation-Strategies-to-Water-Level-Variability-in-Lake-Naivasha-Kenya.pdf [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

26. Mungai, D., & Maina, I. W. (2025). Structural Employment Challenges and Digital Economy Dynamics in Kenya Pathways to Inclusive and Decent Work. Business and Investment Review, 3(6). http://lgdpublishing.org/index.php/birev/article/view/216 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

27. Murthy, V., & Ramakrishna, S. (2022). A review on global E-waste management: Urban mining towards a sustainable future and circular economy. Sustainability, 14(2), 647. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

28. Ndung’u, M. W., & Magaju, P. (2024). The contribution of food waste management on hotel sustainability in Kenya. Editon Consortium Journal of Business and Management Studies, 6(1), 1–12. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

29. Odeny, J. A., Kurauka, S. M. J., & Kurauka, J. (2020). The role of procurement procedures in environmental management: A case study of classified hotels in Mombasa County, Kenya. Менаџмент у Хотелијерству и Туризму, 8(1), 11–23. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

30. Onyango, J., Kitaka, N., Bruggen, J. J. A., Irvine, K., & Simaika, J. (2023). Agricultural intensification in Lake Naivasha Catchment in Kenya and associated pollution. https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-3388206/latest [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

31. Osiako, P. O., & Kummitha, H. R. (2020). Environmental management practices among coastal beach hotels in Kenya. African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure, 9(1), 34. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

32. Parajuly, K., Kuehr, R., Awasthi, A. K., Fitzpatrick, C., Lepawsky, J., Smith, E., Widmer, R., & Zeng, X. (2019). Future e-waste scenarios. https://researchrepository.ul.ie/articles/report/Future_e-waste_scenarios/19812673 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

33. Reijnders, L. (2024). The Global Challenge of E‐Waste Generation. In A. Priya (Ed.), Management of Electronic Waste (1st ed., pp. 15–38). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119894360.ch2 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

34. Seva-Larrosa, P., & García-Lillo, F. (2025). Hotel tourism vs. second home tourism: Analyzing the impacts on the destination’s labor market. Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events, 17(4), 1075–1095. https://doi.org/10.1080/19407963.2025.2521510 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

35. Shahabuddin, M., Uddin, M. N., Chowdhury, J. I., Ahmed, S. F., Uddin, M. N., Mofijur, M., & Uddin, M. A. (2023). A review of the recent development, challenges, and opportunities of electronic waste (e-waste). International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 20(4), 4513–4520. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

36. Stef, N., Arfaoui, N., Jabeur, S. B., & Nasir, M. A. (2025). Institutional quality and firms’ recycling performance. Journal of Environmental Management, 386, 125801. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

37. Taherdoost, H., & Madanchian, M. (2024). Decision making: Models, processes, techniques. Cloud Computing and Data Science, 1–14. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

38. Vishwakarma, A., Kanaujia, K., & Hait, S. (2023). Global scenario of E-waste generation: Trends and future predictions. In Global e-waste management strategies and future implications (pp. 13–30). Elsevier. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780323999199000131 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

39. Wang, C., Sun, Y., Lim, M. K., Ghadimi, P., & Azadnia, A. H. (2023). An analysis of barriers for successful implementation of municipal solid waste management in Beijing: An integrated DEMA℡-MMDE-ISM approach. Industrial Management & Data Systems, 123(3), 931–966. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

40. Wirtu, Y. D., Godana, U. A., & Tucho, G. T. (2025). A review of public perception and awareness of e-waste management in developing countries: Challenges and opportunities for sustainable solutions. Environmental Reviews, 33, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1139/er-2024-0133 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

41. Zaki, K. (2025). Enabling hotel circularity via Industry 4.0 innovations for enhanced hotel performance: Insights from Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, 8(3), 915–936. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

42. Zrnić, M. (2026). Exploring Sustainable Food Waste in Hotels: Practices, Challenges and Managerial Perceptions. Sustainability, 18(6), 2947 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• Seasonal Variations of Some Physico-Chemical Parameters of Ramsagar Dighi, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
• Why Pollution Endures: Geographic Foundations of Environmental Crisis in Russia’s Industrial Heartlands
• Occurrence of Microplastics in Hijo River Sediments, Davao Region, Philippines
• Assessing the Contribution of Microfinance to Women’s Economic Empowerment in Rural Bangladesh Author Details
• Waste-To-Energy: A Strategy for Urban Sprawl Management in Enugu Metropolis, South East, Nigeria