Disposal alternatives for electronic waste in Korogocho and Dandora informal settlements: Implications on waste management in urban centres in Kenya
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Date
2013-05
Authors
Omuterema, Sta ley
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Although digital technology improves job prospects and lifts people out of poverty, new technologies and increased turnover of electronic products has led to a rise in e-waste. The situation in Kenya is aggravated by weak enforcement of policies and legislation. This study investigated the main sources of e-waste in Korogocho and Dandora informal settlements. It also established ways in which the e-waste is used. It investigated the impacts of the waste on the livelihoods of the community members. The study also determined ways in which administrative
officers responded to the e-waste menace. The study applied descriptive survey research design. It used purposive and simple random sampling strategies and targeted two informal settlements; Dandora and Korogocho. Interview schedules were used to collect data. This was then presented in tables and charts. The study found that shops and other commercial agencies are the main sources of e-waste found within households in Korogocho and Dandora informal settlements. Most of these are shops that located within the city council waste collection routes. Private sources (individual and groups) are also significant sources of e-waste. A significant proportion of the community store and involve themselves in re-sale of e-waste. Some use the e-waste for re-fabrication of secondary and subsequent re-use. The level of awareness among households and community members about the impacts of e-waste on their health is low. The members are not aware of the e-waste potential for toxicity and disease. A correlation statistic established that the respondents discard their e-waste irrespective of knowledge of government laws and policies and therefore points to lack of enforcement of the regulations. Fencing of dumping places and, arresting and prosecution of law-breakers are popular options for enforcement of e-waste regulations, policies and laws. It is recommended that shops and other commercial enterprises should put in place measures for effective collection and management of e-waste. Proper separation mechanisms should be implemented to prevent such waste from reaching households. Private individuals and groups that generate e-waste should similarly use effective management strategies. Public awareness and education about hazards involved in storage and sale of e-waste should be enhanced. The same should target households and other main stakeholders who use e-waste for refabrication and, subsequent re-use and sale. The level of awareness among households and community members about the impacts of e-waste on their health should be also enhanced. This should particularly cover the potential for disease spread and toxicity. Public administration officers in informal settlement areas should embrace all the available procedures to enforce environmental management regulations, policies and laws relating to e-waste management. These should include use of sensitization sessions with the
Description
A research project submitted to the school of Humanities and Social Sciences in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Master of Public Policy and Administration of Kenyatta University