E-waste: Growing environmental and health problems and its management alternatives in developing countries

Abstract

The management of hazardous municipal waste is a challenge. Added to this burden is the management of huge and growing quantities of electrical and electronic waste, which is emerging as one of the most important environmental challenges and health problems in developing countries, particularly in Africa. This has been accelerated by rapid growth and development in the information and communication technology (ICT) industries. The growth in waste electrical and electronic equipment (e-waste) has brought several challenges including introducing effective management practices that are environmentally sound to reduce the negative impacts on human health and the environment. This review aimed to show the extent of e-waste as a growing issue to the environment and human health in developing countries where waste management problems pose immense challenges. Seven electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, DOAJ, JSTOR, and Google Scholar) were used to access published scientific articles. Systematic reviews, case studies, analytical cross-sectional studies, policy review papers, and available relevant studies were considered. The findings of this review show that the volume of electronic waste destined for developing countries is increasing from year to year. Most countries did not have specific policies on e-waste but relied on hazardous waste policies. Dumping and improper recycling and handling of e-waste cause problems such as contamination of soil and water, depletion of grazing land, health problems such as respiratory infections, various cancers, congenital disabilities, and other health issues that affect the brain and other vital organs.