Developing Sustainable Consumer Practices: A Framework for Managing Refurbished Electronic Goods in India

Abstract

This study delves into sustainable buying behaviour for refurbished electronic goods in India, driven by the increasing importance of sustainable consumption. It aims to identify key factors influencing consumer decisions, providing insights for businesses and policymakers. The research employs Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) and Spherical Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (SF-AHP). Eight participants from varied backgrounds contribute diverse perspectives, and a strategic methodology includes expert briefings, literature distribution, and collaborative decision–making. Fourteen sustainability drivers are identified and ranked using SF-AHP. Noteworthy factors include "Personal Financial Situation," highlighting economic influence, and ISM analysis reveals societal impact, product quality, and cost savings as central themes. Analysis such as MICMAC (Matrice d' Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliqués à un Classement i.e., cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification) underscores the interconnectedness of factors, emphasizing driving forces like customer support and product upgradability. Such analysis adds complexity, highlighting driving and dependent factors, offering a holistic view of refurbished product adoption dynamics in India. The novelty lies in integrating ISM and SF-AHP methodologies, unveiling fourteen sustainability drivers, and providing insights into factors influencing consumer choices. This study offers a nuanced understanding of sustainable consumer behaviour, emphasizing economic considerations, trust– building measures, and awareness campaigns. The findings contribute actionable insights for businesses and policymakers aiming to promote the adoption of refurbished goods in the Indian market.