Circular Economy and sustainable consumption- Antecedents of zoomers intention to buy preowned Mobile Phones

Abstract

E-waste generation is rising rapidly, with mobile phones among the most hoarded small electronics despite usability (International WEEE Forum, 2022). The shift from linear to circular smartphone markets depends on consumer participation, where refurbishment offers lower environmental and economic costs than new device

This mixed-methods study explores antecedents shaping Zoomers’ (Generation Z) intention to buy pre-owned mobile phones within sustainable consumption, green purchase intention, and e-waste reduction frameworks. Quantitative analysis and semi-structured interviews reveal key drivers: environmental awareness, perceived value, quality assurance, and social endorsement amplified through Twitter-based peer influence. Adoption barriers include distrust in reseller platforms, perceived obsolescence, loss of unboxing excitement, low price differential, and social stigma linked to phone-based status signaling.

Findings highlight the intertwined nature of economic, emotional, environmental, and social factors, offering strategic insights for circular mobile markets targeting Gen Z.