Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, posing significant environmental, health, and resource challenges by releasing hazardous substances, wasting valuable raw materials, and placing a heavy burden on societies with limited recycling infrastructure.
STEP’s mission is to drive sustainable solutions for electronics by uniting diverse stakeholders and fostering collaboration across research, policy, and industry. With its unique focus on both global policy dialogues and local implementation, particularly in the low-and middle-income economies, STEP seeks to reduce environmental impacts, support safe recycling practices, and promote circular economy opportunities.
DURATION: 2025 – Ongoing
SCOPE: Global
FOCUS AREA: Circular electronics & e-waste management
Since 2004, the STEP Initiative (previously Solving the E-waste Problem) has been a global, multi-stakeholder platform bringing together producers, recyclers, researchers, governments, and international organizations to advance sustainable solutions across the entire electronics value chain.
In 2025, STEP entered a new phase as being hosted by the World Resources Forum Association (WRFA), revitalizing its strategy and strengthening its role as a leading voice in circular electronics and e-waste management worldwide.
Through its new strategy, STEP will focus on:
Generating and sharing scientific insights to inform policy, guide innovation, and support practical solutions to unsustainable electronics.
Defining realistic targets and approaches adapted to diverse markets and regions, while advancing the global vision of a circular electronics economy.


Stay tuned as STEP embarks on a new chapter—expanding its global reach, strengthening collaborations, and driving solutions for sustainable electronics. Follow our journey for the latest updates, events, and insights, and discover how your organization can be part of the movement to tackle the e-waste challenge.