Which statement best captures the comparison between proximity to e-waste supply and proximity to customers?

• A. Proximity to customers is always more important than proximity to raw materials.
• B. Proximity to e-waste supply is irrelevant if customers exist elsewhere.
• C. Proximity to e-waste supply may matter more because raw material availability is essential, while customers can be served from farther away.
• D. Both proximities are unimportant for this business model.

Answer: (C)

Location decisions for an e-waste recovery business hinge on the balance between access to feedstock and access to customers. The feedstock is the essential input; if you can't secure enough e-waste close by, the operation may stall or costs will rise sharply because collecting, transporting, and handling e-waste involves specialized processes and regulatory compliance. Being near sources reduces collection distance, speeds up sorting and processing, and lowers transport and storage risks, which matters more since the value of the recovered materials depends on consistent feedstock quality and quantity. On the other hand, customers for the recovered materials or refurbished electronics can be reached through established distribution networks and logistics; they can be served from farther away without crippling the business, so proximity to customers is less critical in this model. Therefore, proximity to e-waste supply may matter more because raw material availability is essential, while customers can be served from farther away.