ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS IMPLICATION ON E-WASTE MANAGEMENT AMONG CAMEROONIAN UNDERGRADUATES. CASE STUDY OF UNIVERSITY OF BEAU

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

The escalating hazards and detrimental effects of garbage on humans, livestock, and the ecology have been well-documented (Kelly, 2022). According to Atiemo et al. (2019), a yearly amount of 20 to 50 million tonnes of Electrical Electronic Equipment (EEE) wastes are produced globally, which have the potential to harm human health and the environment. Butu (2019) defines e-waste as electrical and electronic materials that are discarded by end users, encompassing a broad spectrum of products ranging from basic gadgets to intricate goods. Electrical and electronic equipment can quickly become technologically obsolete due to the constant release of new models. A significant majority of electrical goods and electronic gadgets imported from rich countries to developing or underdeveloped countries have already exceeded their normal lifespan prior to importation (Osibanjo, 2018). 

Ahmed's (2020) observation indicates that population, economic expansion, market penetration, technological advancements, and rates of obsolescence significantly accelerate the end-of-life process of electrical/electronic equipment, transforming them into e-waste. The utilisation of electrical appliances and electronic devices, along with the resulting production of electronic waste during their typical lifespan, results in the deposition of hazardous compounds that have significant environmental implications in the form of solid e-waste (Okoro, 2019; Moses et al., 2019; Osibanjo, 2018; Chi et al., 2021). A significant quantity of electronic trash is produced, consisting of both hazardous and valuable materials (Zhan and Xu, 2018). Improper handling of these electronic wastes can pose health and environmental risks to humans, livestock, and the ecosystem (Hossain et al., 2017). trash management refers to the process of safely collecting, storing, treating, and disposing of trash in order to prevent harm to both humans and the environment (Attah, 2018). This concept primarily involves the collaborative endeavours of individuals who are attentive and deliberate in their systematic approach to preserving and upholding an aesthetically pleasing, economically sustainable, physically sound, favourable, and secure living environment (Okwesili, et al., 2019).

Studies have indicated that many developing countries rely on dump sites, lack designated areas for collecting electronic waste, face challenges in transporting e-waste to safe disposal sites, lack the necessary infrastructure for managing hazardous waste effectively, and suffer from a lack of awareness among individuals and the informal sector regarding the risks associated with electronic waste (Paul & Tshetlhane, 2019; Lundgren, 2017). The lack of broad understanding among people regarding the dangerous nature of e-waste, combined with crude and unskilled methods of managing e-waste, has significantly contributed to the e-waste issues in Africa (Stewards, 2023). The absence of knowledge and informative guidance on efficient and suitable procedures for treating e-waste might potentially endanger human health, particularly when dealing with expired products (Hossain et al., 2018). Liu et al. (2023) stated that environmental issues are not entirely eliminable, but rather can only be mitigated and regulated by conscientious knowledge and implementation of waste management practices. E-waste is perilous, intricate, and costly to process in an ecologically responsible manner (Inoka, 2017). Caution can only be effectively exercised when there is a proper understanding of the potential risks involved. Knowledge, such as information about e-waste, is crucial in shaping and influencing the actions of the general public. When individuals communicate or take action based on their knowledge, it spreads to others, which is a key aspect of an educational environment. 

In underdeveloped nations such as Cameroon, the issue of managing electronic waste is especially severe due to inadequate infrastructure, absence of regulatory frameworks, and poor public awareness (Ongondo et al., 2021). It is crucial to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of e-waste management among the increasing population of young people in Cameroon, particularly undergraduate students who are significant consumers of electronic gadgets. Gaining an understanding of the level of awareness within this group can offer valuable insights into the efficacy of current educational programs and guide the creation of specific treatments. The University of Buea, a prominent establishment in Cameroon, clearly exhibits a widespread presence of electronic gadgets among its pupils. Nevertheless, it is uncertain to what degree these pupils possess knowledge regarding the appropriate disposal and handling of electronic trash. The objective of this study is to evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness regarding the management of electronic trash (e-waste) among undergraduate students at the University of Buea. Additionally, the study will investigate how their understanding of e-waste management can impact broader environmental sustainability initiatives in the region.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The escalating production of electronic garbage (e-waste) is a critical worldwide concern, especially in poor nations where the infrastructure for effective e-waste management is frequently insufficient (Baldé et al., 2017). The absence of efficient e-waste management systems in Cameroon has led to the inappropriate disposal of dangerous substances, causing environmental contamination and posing health hazards (Ndiaye et al., 2013). Although electronic device usage is increasing among young people, especially university students, there is still a notable lack of understanding and awareness regarding the safe and sustainable handling of electronic trash.

At the University of Buea, a prominent educational establishment in Cameroon, there is growing apprehension regarding the disposal methods employed by undergraduates due to their extensive reliance on electronic gadgets. The lack of comprehensive training programs and awareness campaigns on e-waste management may lead to irresponsible disposal practices, worsening the environmental and health issues related to e-waste (Borthakur & Govind, 2017). The absence of awareness and information has the potential to weaken endeavours aimed at fostering sustainable development and safeguarding the environment in the area. The objective of this study is to tackle the lack of knowledge and awareness regarding the management of electronic trash (e-waste) among undergraduate students at the University of Buea. The study seeks to identify gaps in the knowledge levels and awareness of these students in order to target them with educational interventions. This would ultimately contribute to improving e-waste management practices in Cameroon.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically Assess the Knowledge and Awareness Implication on E-Waste Management among Cameroonian undergraduates. Case study of University of Beau. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To analyze the Implications of Knowledge and Awareness on E-Waste Management Behavior among undergraduates in University of Beau

To evaluate the Level of Knowledge about E-Waste Among Undergraduates in University of Beau

To assess Awareness of E-Waste Management Practices Among Undergraduates in University of Beau

To identify Gaps in Knowledge and Awareness Related to E-Waste Among Undergraduates in in University of Beau

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 is the impact of Knowledge and Awareness on E-Waste Management Behavior among undergraduates in University of Beau?

What is the Level of Knowledge about E-Waste Among Undergraduates in University of Beau?

What is the extent of Awareness of E-Waste Management Practices Among Undergraduates in University of Beau?

What are the Gaps in Knowledge and Awareness Related to E-Waste Management Practices Among Undergraduates in University of Beau?

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: Adequate knowledge and awareness have no significant impact on undergraduate E-Waste Management Behavior in University of Beau.

Ha: Adequate knowledge and awareness have significant impact on undergraduate E-Waste Management Behavior in University of Beau.

1.6 Significance of the study

This study is essential as it offers unique insights into the knowledge and awareness levels of Cameroonian undergraduates concerning e-waste management. It has ramifications for educational practices, the formulation of policies, environmental and health results, and involvement with regional communities.

The study aims to ascertain the present level of knowledge and awareness among undergraduate students about the management of electronic trash (e-waste). This aids in discerning deficiencies in comprehension and the presence of erroneous information. The study can direct the creation of focused educational programs and resources by identifying specific areas of knowledge deficiency.

Furthermore, gaining an understanding of the levels of awareness and knowledge might offer valuable insights into the behaviors and attitudes of students about the management of electronic trash. Efficient handling of electronic trash frequently necessitates modifications in behavior. The study's findings can be utilized to develop programs aimed at encouraging students to adopt more effective techniques for disposing of electronic waste.

Moreover, the results can contribute to the development of university and national strategies about e-waste management by offering empirical data on existing knowledge and behaviors. Suggestions might be provided for optimal methods in handling electronic waste specifically designed for the circumstances of Cameroonian students.

Moreover, electronic trash presents substantial environmental and health hazards. Through enhancing knowledge and implementing effective management practices, the study can make a valuable contribution towards mitigating these risks. Effective e-waste management can mitigate detrimental impacts on human health, especially in places with elevated amounts of electronic trash.

Moreover, the study can facilitate the incorporation of e-waste management subjects into the university curriculum or extracurricular activities. The study can provide valuable insights for creating campus-wide awareness campaigns regarding the significance of appropriate e-waste disposal.

Furthermore, this work enhances the academic field by addressing research shortages in the area of e-waste management in developing nations, specifically inside higher education institutions. The findings can serve as a standard for comparative studies in other regions or nations that have similar socio-economic settings.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically Assess the Knowledge and Awareness Implication on E-Waste Management among Cameroonian undergraduates. Specifically, this study seeks to analyze the Implications of Knowledge and Awareness on E-Waste Management Behavior among undergraduates in Cameroon and evaluate the Level of Knowledge about E-Waste Among Undergraduates in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on assessing the extent of Awareness of E-Waste Management Practices Among Undergraduates in Cameroon and it also seeks to identify Gaps in Knowledge and Awareness Related to E-Waste Among Undergraduates in Cameroon.

 The study is carried out in the University of Beau, Cameroon.  

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the analysis, the researchers noted inherent limits that are present in all human behaviors. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, resulting from the scarcity of data on Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness Implication on E-Waste Management among Cameroonian undergraduates. Case study of University of Beau. Therefore, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to determine the appropriate materials, books, or information and gather data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and confined geographical scope, mostly focused on Cameroon. Therefore, the generalizability of the findings from this study is restricted, highlighting the need for more research. 

Moreover, the limitations faced by the researcher were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student who lacks the requisite financial means to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation rates at the research site posed a challenge in meeting the financial obligations related to transportation expenses.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational pursuits.

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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