Assessing the Effects of E-Waste on the Environment and How to Mitigate It Using Information Technologies: A Case of Agbogbloshie Scrapyard
摘要
This research delves into the role of information technologies in the management of electronic waste (e-waste) in Ghana, with a particular focus on the Agbogbloshie scrapyard. The study employs a qualitative research approach and interviews 10 participants selected via purposive sampling technique with thematic analysis as the analytical lens. The findings revealed that despite the economic benefits derived from e-waste processing, the improper management of e-waste in Ghana continues to pose threats to human health and the environment. Furthermore, it was discovered that collaborative efforts have been initiated by e-waste recyclers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and policymakers to implement solutions to effectively manage e-waste disposal. However, these efforts have not placed enough emphasis on emerging information technologies as a solution to the e-waste management problem in Ghana. Therefore, it is recommended that researchers, technology enthusiasts, and policymakers direct their attention toward exploring specific approaches to employ information technologies in the management of e-waste in Ghana.