Abstract
The escalating growth of e-waste in recent years poses a growing concern for its impact on environment and human health. Rapid changes in technology and consumption patterns by users, changes in production media, rising affordability and dynamic need for efficiency, stimulates development of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) supporting related technological advancements. The resultant rise in the rate of disposal of either obsolete or inefficient equipment has not adequately recognized the toxic components potentially harmful to health and environment. On the global scale, e-waste generated annually ranges between 20 – 50 million metric tons, which can potentially double to over 120 million tons by 2050, following the current trend. Projected associated dangers presents a time bomb that must be addressed as a matter of urgency to avert dangers associated with end-of-life management. E-plastics and other components of electronic gadgets contain flame retarding components in the form of polybrominated diethyl ethers (PBDEs), which are contaminants mixed into the plastic components of electronics. Similarly, electronic products such as computers, refrigerators, and air conditioning units also contain ozone depleting substances such as; chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halon, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Developing countries are associated with lack of, or ineffective legislation and appropriate infrastructure for e-waste management in addition to deficient guiding framework for end of life management, product take back and implementation of extended producer responsibility. In effect, there is little commitment to effective management of e-waste stream. On the contrary a lot of effort has been put to handling and management of domestic waste at the expense of the growing toxic e-waste. The short and long term impacts of e-waste on the environment and human health cannot be ignored as improper disposal and interaction with electronic products contributes to elevated risks of cancer and developmental and neurological disorders. Success in e-waste management demands clear, deliberate and tactful effort that advocates reuse, recycling and ultimate proper disposal of final waste using environmentally sound techniques.
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