1.1 Introduction
Electronic waste, commonly referred to as e-waste, is defined as discarded electrical and electronic equipment such as computers, mobile phones, televisions, and household appliances that are no longer in use or have reached the end of their functional life (Baldé et al., 2017). E-waste is a rapidly growing waste stream driven by technological innovation, urbanization, and consumer demand for the latest electronic devices (Grant et al., 2013). Globally, the generation of e-waste has become a serious environmental challenge. According to the Global E-waste Monitor (Forti, Baldé, & Kuehr, 2020), approximately 53.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste were produced in 2019, and the figure is projected to increase to over 74 million tonnes by 2030 if current consumption and disposal patterns persist. In most developing nations, including Nigeria, the management of e-waste is often unregulated or poorly implemented, resulting in improper disposal practices such as open dumping and burning, which release toxic substances into the air, soil, and water (Ongondo, Williams, & Cherrett, 2011).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Electronic waste, commonly referred to as e-waste, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally due to the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing rate of electronic consumption. According to Baldé et al. (2017), e-waste refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices such as computers, televisions, mobile phones, and home appliances that have reached the end of their useful life. The continuous production and disposal of electronic gadgets have created significant environmental and health challenges worldwide, particularly in developing countries where proper waste management infrastructure is inadequate. Forti, Baldé, and Kuehr (2020) reported that the world generated approximately 53.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste in 2019, with projections indicating an annual increase due to consumerism and technological obsolescence.
Grant et al. (2013) asserted that e-waste contains a complex mixture of valuable and hazardous components. While precious metals such as gold, silver, and copper can be recovered through recycling, toxic substances such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and brominated flame retardants pose severe risks to human health and the environment when improperly handled. Chi et al. (2011) affirmed that in many developing countries, including Nigeria, informal recycling activities dominate e-waste management, often involving open burning and acid leaching processes that release harmful pollutants into the air, soil, and water. These practices contribute to environmental degradation, contaminate food chains, and endanger the health of local communities, especially children and unprotected workers.
Ongondo, Williams, and Cherrett (2011) stated that the lack of effective regulatory frameworks, insufficient public awareness, and limited investment in recycling technology have compounded the e-waste problem in developing nations. Many of these countries serve as dumping grounds for used or obsolete electronics imported from industrialized countries under the guise of donations or second-hand goods. Lundgren (2012) reported that such transboundary movements of e-waste violate international environmental agreements like the Basel Convention and have resulted in severe ecological damage in regions that lack the capacity for safe disposal. On the other hand, Awasthi and Li (2017) contended that with proper management, e-waste could become an important source of secondary raw materials, thereby promoting resource efficiency and contributing to the global circular economy.
Heacock et al. (2016) affirmed that exposure to e-waste-related toxins has been linked to respiratory problems, cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) also reported that vulnerable populations, particularly women and children in informal recycling communities, face the greatest health risks due to prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals. Nnorom and Osibanjo (2008) stated that the Nigerian context reflects these global concerns, as the country faces increasing volumes of imported and domestically generated e-waste, coupled with poor enforcement of environmental laws and inadequate waste management systems.
Forti et al. (2020) asserted that addressing the e-waste problem requires a holistic approach involving government regulation, industry participation, community engagement, and international cooperation. This study is set against the backdrop of the growing global and national concern about the improper management of electronic waste and its adverse impact on the environment.
1.3 Statement of Problems
The management of electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the modern world. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing demand for electronic devices, the volume of e-waste is rising at an alarming rate. Millions of discarded electronic products such as computers, mobile phones, televisions, and household appliances are improperly disposed of every year, leading to severe environmental degradation and posing significant health risks to humans and wildlife (Awasthi & Li, 2017).
In many developing countries, including Nigeria, the problem is compounded by inadequate regulatory frameworks, poor waste management infrastructure, and limited public awareness about the dangers associated with e-waste. A large portion of e-waste is either dumped in open landfills or burnt in informal recycling operations, which emit toxic fumes and further deteriorate air quality (Ongondo, Williams, & Cherrett, 2011).
Furthermore, the global trade of e-waste from developed to developing countries continues to exacerbate the problem, as large quantities of used or discarded electronics are shipped under the guise of “donations” or “second-hand goods,” overwhelming local disposal systems and increasing pollution levels in recipient nations (Lundgren, 2012). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the management of electronic waste and its impact on the environment.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The primary aim of this study is to examine the current practices of electronic waste management and assess their environmental impacts. To achieve this aim, the study has the following objectives:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing e-waste management systems in Nigeria.
- To identify the environmental hazards associated with improper disposal of electronic waste.
- To investigate the level of public awareness and participation in e-waste recycling initiatives.
- To examine government policies and regulations related to electronic waste management.
- To propose sustainable strategies and recommendations for improving e-waste management practices.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- How effective are the current electronic waste management systems in Nigeria?
- What are the major environmental hazards associated with improper disposal of electronic waste?
- To what extent are the public aware of proper e-waste disposal and recycling practices?
- How adequate and enforceable are the existing policies and regulations on electronic waste management?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve sustainable e-waste management practices in Nigeria?
- How does parental educational background and socioeconomic status influence students' career decisions?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the management of electronic waste and its impact on the environment in Nigeria.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the management of electronic waste and its impact on the environment in Nigeria.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will serve as a guide for policymakers, environmental agencies, and industry stakeholders in developing strategies that will minimize pollution, promote recycling, and protect public health. The study will also enhance public awareness and encourage responsible disposal behavior, while contributing to sustainable development practices.
Furthermore, industries and manufacturers will learn about the advantages of sustainable product design and take-back schemes for electronic products. In addition, communities and the general public will be educated on proper disposal and recycling practices, which will reduce health hazards and environmental degradation.
Lastly, researchers and academics will have access to empirical findings that will inform future studies and innovations in e-waste management.
1.8 Scope of Study
The study focuses on the management of electronic waste and its environmental impact in Lagos State, Nigeria, with specific attention to the activities of recycling centers, informal e-waste collectors, and government regulatory agencies.
The research will examine both urban and peri-urban areas where e-waste generation and informal recycling practices are most prevalent.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Electronic Waste (E-waste): Refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices that are no longer functional or wanted. According to Baldé et al. (2017), e-waste includes computers, mobile phones, televisions, and household appliances.
E-waste Management: The process of handling, collecting, recycling, and disposing of electronic waste in a manner that reduces environmental and health risks. Heacock et al. (2016) stated that effective e-waste management involves both formal and informal recycling systems and safe disposal practices.
Recycling: The process of recovering valuable materials from electronic devices for reuse, reducing the need for raw material extraction (Forti, Baldé, & Kuehr, 2020).
Informal Recycling: E-waste processing carried out by individuals or small-scale operators using rudimentary methods such as burning or acid leaching, often resulting in environmental contamination and health hazards (Chi et al., 2011).
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): A policy approach where manufacturers are responsible for the collection, recycling, and safe disposal of their products after consumer use (Awasthi & Li, 2017).
Environmental Impact: The effect of human activities, such as improper e-waste disposal, on the environment, including soil, water, and air pollution (Grant et al., 2013).
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