Disconnect between policy and practice in developing countries : e-waste management strategies in South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Uncontrolled transboundary movements of hazardous waste, some of which declared as economic goods, have their final stop in developing countries. E-waste or Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) represent a big amount of hazardous waste in Nigeria and other West African nations. This research concept was driven by the Pongrácz’s theory of waste management. The study examined WEEE management strategies in South Eastern Nigeria with a view to suggest appropriate implementable measures. The study used primary and secondary sources of data to assess the amount of WEEE generated and the factors affecting its generation and collection. The primary data were gathered through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and observation. The secondary data were taken from documents, reports, and publications about WEEE waste in the study area. 280 questionnaires were given using purposive sampling technique to 200 consumers/end-users of WEEE, 40 officials of Monitoring/Control Agencies, and 40 entrepreneurs who deal, sell or refurbish e-waste in South Eastern Nigeria. In-depth interviews were conducted on senior/coordinating officers from the Monitoring and Control Agencies. Collected data were analysed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics.