AN EVALUATION OF THE DIFFICULTIES IN MANAGING ELECTRONIC WASTE (E-WASTE) IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

The worldwide market for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is seeing rapid and continuous growth. The significant expansion can be ascribed to the swift advancements in technology, shifts in consumption patterns, alterations in production media, the rising affordability resulting from declining prices, economic progress, and the short lifespan of products due to technological innovations (Bhutta et al., 2021; Yang et al., 2022). The society's lifestyle is centred around technology, driven by the constant demand for the newest and most advanced things. Nevertheless, the exponential expansion of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is causing a significant increase in the production of electronic garbage (e-waste), resulting in it being one of the most rapidly rising streams of hazardous waste (Ghimire et al., 2020; Needhidassan, 2019). In 2016, around 44.7 metric tonnes of e-waste were produced, which increased to 50 metric tonnes in 2018. It is projected that the amount of e-waste generated will reach 53 metric tonnes in 2021, assuming an annual growth rate of 4-5% (Balde et al., 2017). Furthermore, the significant progress in technology, marked by alterations in components, requires an adaptable method in the management of electronic waste (Maimba, 2019; Chandrasekaran et al., 2018).

Developing nations face an additional responsibility of managing electronic waste due to the acquisition of large quantities of used electronic devices (Wang et al., 2020). Due to the citizens' inability to afford new electronics, they are compelled to buy used products with a shorter lifespan, resulting in them quickly becoming waste (Otieno, 2018). In addition, because to the lack of interest from rich countries in repairing waste electrical and electronic equipments (WEEEs), many poor countries have been enticed to import their outdated gadgets under the guise of second-hand equipment (Svensson et al., 2020). Typically, electronic devices consist of several materials that need to be handled properly at the end of their life. The most significant materials include lead, mercury, arsenic, chromium, cadmium, and polymers that can release compounds such as dioxins and furans (Wong et al., 2021). Contrary to municipal garbage, these components possess hazardous properties and so necessitate specialised expertise in their treatment, recycling, and disposal (Richter et al., 2019).

E-waste disposal through burning releases various polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, dibenzo[a,h]anthracene, dibenzo[a,l]pyrene, indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, and others. It also emits polyhalogenated dibenzodioxins (PHDDs), including polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), and polyhalogenated dibenzofurans (PHDFs), including polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). These substances are well-known for their toxicity and carcinogenic properties (Wang & Tian, 2022). E-waste is characterised by the presence of specific components such as lithium batteries, fire retardants, LCD monitors, and chip glass, which differentiate it from other types of garbage and contribute to its complexity and uniqueness (Needhidassan, 2019; Lucier & Gareau, 2019; Ernst et al., 2023). Televisions and computer monitors often include harmful elements like mercury, phosphorous, cadmium, barium, and lead in their Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT). If these devices are not stored properly, these substances can seep into the surrounding environment, as documented by Ladou et al. (2018). Hence, it is necessary to supervise the storage of electronic waste that contains cathode ray tubes (CRT) in order to detect any potential leakage by employing sensor mechanisms (Songa & Lubanga, 2019). Practically, CRTs are equipped with leaded glass to shield against X-rays generated during the picture projection process (Lecler et al., 2019). The glass has the capacity to hold lead within the range of 1.6-3.2kg, which has the potential to cause harm to the environment when released (Singh, Wang & Li, 2019). The harmful properties of the CRT have resulted in its prohibition from being disposed of in landfills in countries such as the United States, Japan, European Union member states, and other developed nations (Yu et al., 2019).

The management of electronic trash is influenced by various aspects, such as the possible risks it poses, the existing recycling technology, and the relevant regulations (Balde et al., 2017; Abalansa et al., 2021). Developed nations have typically established intricate and expensive mechanisms to manage electronic trash, driven by their commitment to environmental preservation (Balde et al., 2017). Nevertheless, in underdeveloped nations, the disassembly of electronic equipment typically occurs within the informal sector, where perilous byproducts immediately come into contact with humans, hence constituting a health threat (Abalansa et al., 2021). The detrimental effects of electronic waste (e-waste) on human health and the environment, both in the immediate and extended periods, must not be disregarded (Lundgren, 2021). In many developing nations with inadequate infrastructure and insufficient resources to manage electronic trash, the majority of the material is disposed of in open dump sites. The local community in these areas is largely unaware of the hazardous nature of e-waste (Abalansa et al., 2021; Bhutta et al., 2021). Addressing the difficulties of e-waste necessitates taking into account technical factors. Nevertheless, in the majority of instances, it is necessary to establish a legislative framework, organise collecting procedures, manage logistics, and provide other essential services prior to the implementation of a technical solution (Pedro et al., 2021).

Cameroon is facing an increasingly severe e-waste problem due to the rapid integration of technology. The government is struggling to efficiently handle this expanding waste stream due to a lack of infrastructure, rules, and public awareness. In Cameroon, the informal sector is responsible for the majority of e-waste management, characterised by prevalent unregulated recycling activities. These techniques frequently entail the incineration of electronic components in order to extract valuable metals, resulting in the emission of harmful fumes and the pollution of land and water sources (Ndiaye et al., 2017). The prevalence of the informal sector in e-waste management underscores the substantial disparity between policy and implementation, as current restrictions are frequently inadequately enforced, if enforced at all (Boni et al., 2021). Moreover, Cameroon encounters substantial obstacles with the infrastructure for collecting, recycling, and disposing of e-waste. The country's absence of dedicated facilities for e-waste processing results in the buildup of perilous substances in landfills or informal dumpsites. The lack of technical skills and financial resources further exacerbates this problem, hence constraining the capacity of local authorities to effectively execute e-waste management programs (Mafoua et al., 2019).

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon is facing an escalating problem with electronic garbage (e-waste) because to the fast pace of technical progress, higher usage of consumer devices, and insufficient infrastructure for managing waste. The inadequate management and incorrect disposal of electronic trash (e-waste) present substantial environmental and public health hazards, underscoring the need to assess the challenges associated with successfully handling e-waste. The Republic of Cameroon has experienced a surge in the production of electronic trash (e-waste) as a result of the growing usage of electronic gadgets, including cellphones, computers, and household appliances. The increase in e-waste is exacerbated by the quick obsolescence of electronic products and the absence of adequate disposal and recycling mechanisms (Sane et al., 2020). The increasing amount of electronic trash poses difficulties for current waste management systems, which are frequently ill-equipped to handle specialised electronic waste streams.

An inherent challenge in effectively handling electronic trash in Cameroon is the insufficiency of infrastructure dedicated to the collection, recycling, and disposal of such garbage. Several areas suffer from a lack of specialised e-waste collection centres and recycling facilities, resulting in incorrect disposal practices such open dumping and informal recycling (Mombo et al., 2021). Lack of organised collection and treatment infrastructure leads to inadequate management of substantial amounts of e-waste, causing environmental pollution and posing health hazards. In Cameroon, there is often a lack of public understanding on the appropriate disposal and recycling of electronic trash (e-waste). A significant portion of the population is uninformed of the potential dangers that come with improper disposal of electronic trash, as well as the various recycling and safe disposal methods that are currently accessible (Nguefack et al., 2020). The absence of consciousness and involvement contributes to the continuation of informal and ecologically detrimental disposal methods.

The primary obstacles encountered in managing e-waste in underdeveloped countries are the absence of legislation and inadequate infrastructure for e-waste management (Abalansa et al., 2021). Many developing nations do not have clear legislative frameworks to guide the management of end-of-life electronic and electrical equipment (EEE), the process of taking back products, and the application of extended producer responsibility (EPR) (Heeks et al., 2018). In addition, the majority of countries have demonstrated minimal dedication to efficiently managing the e-waste stream (Osibanjo et al., 2019; Heeks et al., 2018). The lack of action can be partially ascribed to a lack of information regarding the possible consequences of the e-waste stream, ineffective enforcement by regulatory agencies responsible for managing it, restricted recycling technologies, and inadequate infrastructure for garbage disposal (Kumar, 2023). For instance, the majority of individuals in underdeveloped countries lack knowledge about the legislation pertaining to the management of electronic trash, which, in turn, are not effectively implemented (Muhani, 2019). The lack of understanding among stakeholders has hindered the people' contribution to proper e-waste management, which is crucial for success (Luther et al., 2020). In addition, many poor nations have prioritised solving the fundamental issue of domestic trash, rather than focussing on the increasingly harmful effects of specialised waste streams like e-waste (Abalansa et al., 2021). Considering these obstacles, it is imperative to conduct a thorough assessment of the challenges associated with e-waste management in Cameroon.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically evaluate the Difficulties in Managing Electronic Waste (E-Waste) in Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To assess the primary challenges in managing e-waste in Cameroon

To evaluate the effectiveness of existing e-waste management policies and regulations in Cameroon

To determine the level of public awareness and participation in e-waste management in Cameroon

To provide recommendations for overcoming the identified difficulties in e-waste management in Cameroon

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What are the primary challenges in managing e-waste in Cameroon?

How effective are the existing e-waste management policies and regulations in Cameroon?

What is the level of public awareness and participation in e-waste management in Cameroon?

What are the recommendations for overcoming the identified difficulties in e-waste management in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: There are no challenges in managing e-waste in Cameroon.

Ha: There are numerous challenges in managing e-waste in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the study

The assessment of challenges in handling electronic trash (e-waste) in Cameroon is crucial because of the diverse effects of e-waste on public health, environmental sustainability, regulatory efficacy, and socio-economic progress. Gaining comprehension of and effectively tackling these obstacles might result in substantial enhancements in e-waste management methodologies and overall standard of living.

The management of electronic waste has a direct impact on the sustainability of the environment. Inadequate management of electronic waste can lead to the pollution of soil and water, contamination of the air, and the depletion of biodiversity. This study seeks to assess the existing e-waste management techniques and their environmental consequences in order to pinpoint areas for potential enhancements that can mitigate environmental deterioration and foster sustainable practices. Efficient management of electronic trash will contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and natural resources in Cameroon.

Moreover, the incorrect disposal of electronic trash presents significant health hazards as a result of the existence of toxic substances including lead, mercury, and cadmium. These compounds have the ability to seep into the environment and pollute water and soil, resulting in health issues such as respiratory ailments, neurological harm, and other severe illnesses. This study aims to offer crucial insights into the health effects linked to the existing methods of managing electronic trash, so aiding in the formulation of policies to reduce these hazards and improve public health safeguards.

Furthermore, the study will offer useful insights into the merits and shortcomings of current legal frameworks and policies that oversee the management of electronic waste in Cameroon. The research can provide valuable insights into areas where laws are lacking and enforcement is difficult, which can then be used to establish stronger and more effective policies and regulations. Enhanced regulatory frameworks can promote more efficient management methods, guarantee adherence to regulations, and aid in the creation of robust e-waste management systems.

Furthermore, evaluating the sufficiency of existing infrastructure for the collection, recycling, and disposal of e-waste would emphasise the necessity for investments in infrastructure enhancement. The study aims to analyse infrastructure shortcomings and suggest strategies to improve e-waste handling facilities. Enhanced infrastructure will enable more effective garbage collection, processing, and recycling, resulting in improved e-waste management.

Furthermore, comprehending the level of public awareness and involvement in the management of electronic trash is essential for developing impactful educational programs and tactics for engaging the public. The study aims to evaluate the extent of public knowledge on e-waste and identify obstacles that hinder the adoption of appropriate disposal methods. The project seeks to improve community engagement and support for e-waste management programs by addressing gaps in knowledge and supporting improved waste management practices.

Moreover, this work enriches the existing comprehension of e-waste management by offering significant data and analysis that could potentially guide future research and scholarly discussions. The findings can result in practical applications and initiatives that can be advantageous to households, regulatory agencies, and local communities.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically evaluate the difficulties in Managing Electronic Waste (E-Waste) in Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to assess the primary challenges in managing e-waste in Cameroon and evaluate the effectiveness of existing e-waste management policies and regulations in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on determining the level of public awareness and participation in e-waste management in Cameroon and it also seeks to provide recommendations for overcoming the identified difficulties in e-waste management in Cameroon.

 The study is carried out in Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the examination, the researchers observed specific limitations that are intrinsic to all human actions. The primary constraint was the dearth of comprehensive literature on the topic, stemming from the paucity of data on an evaluation of the difficulties in managing electronic waste (e-waste) in Cameroon. Hence, a substantial investment of time and effort was required to ascertain the suitable materials, books, or information and collect data. 

Moreover, this study is limited by its limited sample size and restricted geographical coverage, principally centered on Cameroon. Hence, the ability to apply the conclusions of this study to a wider context is limited, emphasizing the necessity for additional research. 

Furthermore, the researcher's restrictions were predominantly a result of financial restraints, as they are a student who lacks the necessary financial resources to support themselves. The excessively high transportation fees at the study site presented a difficulty in fulfilling the financial responsibilities associated with transportation costs.

In addition, the researcher encountered a time limitation as a result of the necessity to do this research while concurrently completing the responsibilities of attending lectures and engaging in other educational endeavors.

1.9 Definition of terms

E-waste: E-waste (electronic waste) includes anything with plugs, cords and electronic components. Common sources of e-waste include televisions, computers, mobile phones and any type of home appliance, from air conditioners to children's toys. Piles of mixed electronic waste.

E-waste management: E-waste management refers to properly disposing and managing electronic waste, including old or discarded electronic gadgets such as phones, computers, and televisions. The process involves the collection, transportation, recycling, refurbishing, and disposal of electronic waste in an environmentally-friendly manner.

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