Solving the waste electrical and electronic equipment problem: socio-economic assessment on sustainable e-waste management in South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria still considers waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) problem as more of socio-economic benefits rather than long-term human and environmental impacts. The study assessed the socio-economic factors affecting the trend of WEEE generation and handling in South Eastern Nigeria. The research concept identified key strategic aspects relative to socio-economic assessment of WEEE management. It used investigative approach through questionnaire administration. Twenty local government areas were purposively selected from five mutually exclusive strata. Data from 201 respondents were analysed using multiple linear regression and descriptive statistics. Results revealed that monetary provisions and public participation does not have significant relationship with WEEE generation and collection. The study revealed that the factors determined as affecting the trend of WEEE generation and collection cut across cheaper pricing of WEEE, availability of WEEE, quality/superiority of E.o.L EEE to newer ones, durability of device, low income consumers and the accessibility of end-users to WEEE.