Introduction

With unprecedented growth taking place in the electronic industry, it has culminated in an increase in the use of electronic goods in Zimbabwe and the world at large. But as the rate of technological advancement keeps on increasing, it creates a need among consumers to replace older goods with newer, more trending gadgets. This results in more generation of e-waste. However, with the huge costs associated with management of e-waste, little or no attention has been devoted to it, which poses a significant problem to our community.

What is E- Waste?

E-waste is discarded electronic appliances. These are products that are unwanted, not functioning or towards the end of their “useful life” span. Examples are old phones, computer monitors, VCRs, central processing units – literally every discarded electronic storage device. One of the sustainable development focuses on sustainable cities and communities.  And recycling of waste is a major aspect of establishing such sustainable communities. However, the cost incurred whilst recycling e-waste does not match the projected profits to be generated from the application of the eventual recycled products.  In the business circle it turns out to not be an attractive investment hence individuals tend to shun away from it.

Potential Effects of failure to handle E-Waste

With that in mind, e-waste management still remains a critical need to our communities as without it, it poses some devastating effects to the environment. Firstly, the majority of e-waste components in use right now possess hazardous elements. These elements such as mercury, beryllium, cadmium, lead etc.  With no or proper routes of e-waste, these toxic materials may permeate the air and leach in ground water systems. With the materials, contaminating the water mainly used for consumption adverse health issues arises affecting the heart, liver and kidneys. According to the World Health Organisation, children and pregnant mothers are especially vulnerable to the effects of hazardous pollutants from e-waste. E-waste exposure is linked to some of the health effects during pregnancy and in infants and children. There is risk of adverse neonatal outcomes thus may result in increased rates of still-births and premature birth. Children on the other hand, are sensitive to the toxins released by e-waste and due to their rapidly growing bodies, it disrupts the development of their respiratory, immune and central nervous systems.

Current Legislation on E-waste 

As it stands, in Zimbabwe there is no legislation or policy on electronic waste management. The only available Environmental Waste Management Act (20;27) prohibits the discharge of hazardous substances into the environment with no specific legislation regulating electronic waste. However, some major players in the corporate world are taking a lead on dealing with electronic waste. Liquid Home, for instance, is a telecommunications company that provides recycling services for electronic devices. The program is endorsed by the Environmental Management Agency. In this program Liquid Home have availed brightly coloured e-waste collection beans located in selected Liquid Home payment points in Harare. This is in particular for smaller types of e-waste such as old cell-phones, laptops, power units and tablets. Enviroserve Central Africa accepts delivery of e-waste as well. It is also endorsed by the Environment Management Agency with its factory in Msasa, Harare or they organize collections at the client’s premises for a fee. 

Conclusion

It is without a shadow of doubt; Zimbabwe communities are at risk. Apart from establishing legislation on e-waste management, it is also vital for institutional building, education and the creation of best practices in e-waste management.