Households’ Consumption of Electrical and Electronic Equipment and Environmental Implication in Ota, Nigeria

Abstract

The generation of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) has been attributed to unprecedented consumption of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) globally. Hence, the issue of consumption and management of the associated WEEE warrant investigation. This study seeks to provide insight into households’ consumption of EEE in Ota, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to purposely administer questionnaire on 111 households’ heads/representatives in random manner. Data collected were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicated that rate in EEE consumption pattern reflects the appliances’ importance to the households. Also, signicant proportion of the households (81.5%) consumed new EEE, implying new EEE is preferred to purchase of used EEE. Decision to acquire new EEE is based on convenience rather than increased income or advertising as reported by 58%. Households’ sale of old EEE appears to suggest reuse or recycling. However, 20.3% of households threw away old EEE. The Chi-Square Tests revealed that there is statistical relationship between respondents’ income and preference to buy, repair or service EEE. This study recommends a holistic approach to research on EEE consumption, review of extant regulations on WEEE management and stakeholders’ engagement for inclusive WEEE management.

Keywords: Consumption, Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Households, Management, Ota – Nigeria, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment