In 2022, the world produced 62 million tons of electronic waste, and this number is set to rise. Let’s explore what this means for children and the environment in Africa.
Every day, we use many electronic devices like phones, computers, and televisions. When they no longer work, they become electronic waste. In 2022, the world generated 62 million tons of this waste, and it’s expected to reach 82 million tons by 2030. However, only 22% of this waste is collected and recycled. So, what happens to the rest?
In Ghana, for example, the Agbogbloshie dump is very well-known. It is filled with electronic waste, where young people, sometimes children, burn and dismantle devices to recover valuable materials like gold and copper. This may seem interesting, but it is dangerous for their health. Inhaling toxic fumes can damage their lungs and development.
Electronic waste is also highly polluting. It emits over 1,000 harmful substances, such as mercury, which pollute the air, water, and soil. These pollutants harm the health of children and families living near these dumps.
Despite rules like the Basel Convention, which prohibits the export of hazardous waste, many countries continue to send their electronic waste to Africa disguised as second-hand devices. Edem d’Almeida, who works for Africa Global Recycling, explains that people in Africa want technology, but often they cannot afford to buy new devices. This is why recycling is so important.
To protect our planet, it is essential for countries to monitor what enters their territory and prevent Africa from becoming a giant dump. Each of us can do our part by recycling our electronic devices properly !
