Ratify e-waste management policy to mitigate health hazards

Technology is changing rapidly, as a result many electronic devices become trash very soon needing immediate replacement. Unfortunately, most electronic devices such as refrigerators, television and radio sets, mobile handsets, washing machines, electric and gas cookers, air conditioners and the like, are manufactured in industrialized world but find a resting place in developing countries.

The obvious danger for many countries, especially those in Africa including Tanzania, is that they seem to give little attention to compulsory management of e-waste, seemingly oblivious to its consequences.

Collection of e-waste in some places ends up in dumpsites just like any other garbage. It should be remembered that the chemicals which form the products have persistent effects to the soil and water, including underground water. Their contact with humans or animals leads to serious health complications.

In this regard, e-waste is a serious environmental problem as toxic chemicals and heavy metals leaching into soils lead to pollution of air and water supplies.

The problem starts with improper recycling techniques. Studies have revealed that e-waste products cause respiratory problems, brain tumour, heart disease, DNA damage and even cancer.

Since town planners, environmental specialists and other concerned experts are quite aware that e-waste is dangerous to the environment and people working at dumpsites and those living nearby, it is time regulations were instituted to enhance proper handling of e-waste.

This can easily be achieved through a controlled recycling stream. Some countries and companies have slapped strict bans on exporting e-waste to dumps. These are instead taken to designated and approved recycling facilities.

Community education is equally important. Many families keep in storerooms electronic devices which are already out of order. A refrigerator manufactured 30 years ago is still kept as souvenir without knowing that some radiant chemicals may be coming into contact with children or even adults by accident.

The issue might seem unimportant, but perhaps by knowing exactly what health problems e-waste causes to the people, the government and activist groups might get more involved in regulating how electronic devices are processed at the end of their useful life.

We believe the issue will meet a deserving response to avoid unnecessary medical expenses which could have been avoided in the first place.

Again, the appeal by our president on expanding the industrial base of this country will amplify the manufacture of high-class commodities to minimize the volume of imported second-hand electronic products.