Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Electronic Waste Management Fund (E-Waste Fund) have launched a national program to collect and properly dispose of electronic and electrical waste. The fund, financed through eco-levies on electronic appliances, aims to oversee the entire e-waste process from collection to recycling.
In an exclusive interview with Climate Watch, Anthony Akwetea-Mensah, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the E-Waste Fund, highlighted the crucial role of scrap dealers, stating, “Scrap dealers are our best friends in this initiative.” He urged them to collect electronic waste and deliver it to designated collection centers, where they will be compensated.
Improper disposal of e-waste poses serious environmental and health dangers, releasing toxic substances like mercury and lead. Akwetea-Mensah stressed the importance of public involvement, urging individuals to bring their old appliances to collection points.
Six collection centers have been established nationwide, with plans to expand across all regions and districts. These centers offer a safe and responsible disposal option and will generate employment for scrap dealers and center operators.
Public education and awareness campaigns are part of the initiative, highlighting the risks of improper e-waste disposal and encouraging responsible practices. Partnerships with malls and public locations have been formed to install collection boxes, facilitating easier disposal.
Akwetea-Mensah emphasized the focus on raising awareness about the hazards of mishandling e-waste and the advantages of proper disposal, urging people to dispose of appliances responsibly after they reach the end of their life.
The fund is also planning to build a modern recycling facility to process collected e-waste, equipped with advanced technology to recycle efficiently and reduce environmental impact.
Addressing concerns about e-waste’s impact, the E-Waste Fund CEO affirmed the commitment to responsible, sustainable management through collaboration with all stakeholders.
The E-Waste Fund encourages Ghanaians to support the initiative by bringing their old appliances to designated centers. Together, they can address the rising e-waste challenge and safeguard the environment.
Current collection sites include Accra (Agublushie and Kufido), Kumasi (KNUST Campus), and Tamale (Regional EPA Office), with plans for further expansion.
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
