Electronic Waste: A Growing Challenge In Nigeria

Abstract

In this age, where information is power, one way to ensure advancement is to acquire Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which is a veritable vehicle for development. It is therefore not surprising that in Nigeria, a developing country that is, perhaps more than others, in a hurry to catch up with the developed world, there is massive importation of electronic ICT equipment. The electronics industry, however, is very innovative and has become one of the world's fastest growing manufacturing sectors. As a consequence, large numbers of electronic ICT products become obsolete each year, and constitute electronic waste. This paper discusses this growing problem of electronic waste from the Nigerian perspective, and highlights factors that can militate against the successful management of such waste in Nigeria. Ways of ensuring success are also highlighted, which include the e-waste “treasure hunt” scheme, in order to keep the problem under control and avert the consequences of environmental pollution and degradation.

Keywords: Information Age, electronic equipment, electronic waste, recycling, environmental pollution, waste management.

Global Journal or Pure and Applied Sciences Vol. 14 (4) 2008: pp. 459-462