Ghanaian officials are sounding the alarm about the escalating e-waste crisis, warning that the improper disposal of electronics poses a public health and environmental threat comparable to illegal mining. Hamza Adam, a member of Parliament for Ghana from Kumbungu and ranking member of the Environment, Science and Technology Committee, recently underscored the urgency of addressing e-waste pollution at a conference dedicated to the issue.
Adam highlighted the stark contrast in attention given to illegal mining, or “galamsey,” and e-waste management, despite the latter’s significant risks. “It is a menace that is so dangerous, and if you look at the way we give attention to galamsey, e-waste also deserves the same,” Adam stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The lack of adequate infrastructure for safe e-waste recycling in Ghana has led to widespread informal and hazardous practices. Open burning and acid digestion, used to extract valuable metals from electronics, expose workers and nearby residents to toxic chemicals. These practices can contaminate water sources and have long-term health implications, including cancers, blood diseases, and brain tumors, as reported by the World Health Organization.
Adam stressed the severity of the issue, noting that “Electronic waste is very dangerous because we know these are metals. When they find their way into the system, they cause a lot of damage. If care is not taken, it can introduce a lot of health issues in the country.”
The toxins from e-waste not only pose direct health risks but also contaminate waterways, soil, and air, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Runoff from dumpsites can eventually impact food and drinking water sources, exacerbating the public health crisis.
While Africa generates the least e-waste per capita, it bears the greatest environmental burden from unwanted electronics. Lax regulations and legal loopholes allow Western countries to ship large quantities of e-waste to poorer nations like Ghana, where disposal is cheaper than proper recycling. However, companies like Trashie and Repowered are taking steps to address the crisis. Trashie offers a Tech Take Back Box for old gadgets, providing perks like movie tickets and food discounts in exchange. Major retailers like Best Buy and Apple also offer trade-in programs for unwanted devices, offering store credit or cash back.
On a broader scale, more e-waste recycling facilities are opening worldwide, including in Africa. Ghana has passed legislation to regulate imports and establish recycling plants, but implementation is slowed by a lack of funding. International cooperation has helped considerably, and individuals can contribute by recycling, selling outdated gadgets, or dropping them off at local e-waste recycling centers.
This growing awareness and action around e-waste management could significantly shape the future of the water, sanitation, and drainage sector. As the sector evolves, it must integrate robust e-waste management strategies to protect public health and the environment. The sector’s development will likely see increased collaboration between governments, private companies, and international organizations to address the e-waste crisis comprehensively. This could lead to innovative recycling technologies, stricter regulations, and greater public awareness, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and healthier future.