Understanding E‐Waste Recycling Behavior: A GSCA Approach Integrating the Theory of Planned Behavior and Habit Formation

ABSTRACT The widespread use of electronic devices has significantly enhanced our lives, yet it has also led to a pressing environmental and public health concern arising from the improper disposal of electronic waste (e‐waste). This issue is particularly acute in developing countries such as Malaysia, where the situation has escalated from a social issue to a criminal offence. This study endeavors to investigate the determinants of e‐waste recycling intentions and behaviors in Malaysia, drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Habit Formation Theory (HFT) as the theoretical framework. A quantitative survey was conducted using a purposive sampling technique, and the data were analyzed using generalized structured component analysis (GSCA). GSCA is suitable for handling non‐normal data and moderate sample sizes. The collected sample is primarily composed of younger respondents (i.e., Generation Z) and a higher proportion of males, this reflects the demographic profile of electronic device owners in the study context. The findings reveal that while attitudes significantly influence e‐waste recycling intention and behaviors, perceived convenience and habits emerged as strong predictors of e‐waste recycling intentions and behaviors. These findings suggest that policymakers and e‐waste management stakeholders should prioritize strategies that promote recycling habits, such as improving access to e‐waste recycling facilities and integrating e‐waste recycling into daily routines. By embedding e‐waste recycling into Malaysia's daily routines through a hierarchically structured approach, such as national infrastructure targets, municipal collection networks, institutional take‐back programs, and community habit‐building initiatives, policymakers can translate intention into sustained behavior and foster a convenient, habitual, and environmentally responsible lifestyle.