Assessing Electronic Waste Disposal Practices as a Function of Reverse Logistics: Evidence from Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

The use of electronic products has grown substantially over the years. Modernity is constantly changing people’s life style and reflects in changes in tastes and preferences for electronic products and services. This contributes to generation of tonnes of electronic wastes which, due to their toxic content, pose serious challenges to human, wild and aquatic. This study assesses electronic waste disposal system in the Kumasi metropolis of Ghana. This study was cross-sectional in nature and adopted qualitative approach. The study relied on primary data using interview and observation instruments. Electronic products repairers, scrap dealers and officials of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Kumasi constituted the target population. Qualitative data collected was analysed through deduction in inferences. Findings from the study revealed that there seem to be no clear cut strategy of e-waste disposal being practised within the metropolis. It was also identified from the study that resource constraints faced by EPA for monitoring and education on e-waste disposal, ineffective collaboration between EPA and the law enforcement agencies and the other stakeholders for effective enforcement of the policy were the major challenges. We recommended the need to educate the public on the toxicity of e-waste and its harmful effects on human, wild and aquatic life. There should be clear and specific electronic waste policies in place to govern and regulate the disposal of electronic waste in Ghana.