AN EVALUATION OF ELECTRONIC WASTE ON WATER AND SOIL IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Currently, technology is extensively intertwined in several facets of human existence, offering numerous benefits to individuals. Nevertheless, the way we live, the progress in technology, and the rapid adoption of new electrical and electronic equipment in our everyday lives have presented challenges for the linear economy of managing electronic waste (Sharma et al., 2020). Furthermore, the endeavour to develop novel ideas and designs will decrease the size of electronic gadgets, resulting in the creation of E-waste programs (Onyara, 2020). The word E-waste has been subjectively interpreted by customers, depending on their own perspectives (Onyara, 2020). In addition, other authors have used alternative terms to describe E-waste as a worldwide issue (Watt et al., 2021). This study adopts the definition of E-waste provided by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which refers to electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) that is no longer functional or has reached the end of its useful life. Examples of E-waste include computers, phones, and other similar devices (UNEP, 2017). Alternatively, E-waste can be defined as any secondary electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) such as computers, refrigerators, mobile phones, televisions, and entertainment devices.

The use of ICT equipment is increasing globally. The term "global waste generation" pertains to the total amount of garbage that is produced over an extended period of time, particularly when new technologies and functional electronic devices emerge (Williams et al., 2019). Hence, the exponential advancement of technology and the rising disposable income are driving the surge in the number of electronic devices. Once they have reached their expiration date, they may be deemed dangerous to the environment and public health (Itu, 2019). Typically, the rise in usage of electrical and electronic equipment has a negative impact on the environment, both during the extraction of natural resources and after the disposal of these products (Halim, 2020). Groundwater quality is a significant global environmental concern that necessitates monitoring a wide range of physicochemical characteristics, including cations and anions. Many nations that depend on groundwater as a valuable resource face the risk of declining water quality and reduced water storage in the aquifer. Additionally, soil degradation renders the groundwater unsuitable for specific use (Mohammadi et al., 2018). Nevertheless, they are experiencing degradation and contamination as a result of electronic waste. E-waste encompasses a wide range of electronic and electrical equipment (EEE), such as televisions, hard drives, batteries, tablets, printers, PCs, and monitors. This kind of garbage contains hazardous heavy metals, including Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), Zinc (Zn), and Copper (Cu). 

The growing amount of E-waste being dumped in landfills is a significant worry due to the high levels of dangerous substances it contains (Townsend, 2017). Exposure of EEE to an unregulated environment can result in the leaching of their hazardous components into permeable soil, leading to the contamination of groundwater and subsequent pollution of both water and soil. Furthermore, the improper disposal of electronic trash in landfills has a significant risk of polluting groundwater and the surrounding surroundings through the generation of leachate. The presence of hazardous compounds in leachate from landfills is associated with landfills that handle old or non-electronic garbage. To fully assess the potential of metal-contaminated soils, it is necessary to determine the precise movement of metals and metalloids in the human food chain (Meena et al., 2017). This is a global issue that is of significance in both emerging and developed countries. It pertains to the evaluation of various settlements that were established prior to the implementation of environmental laws. If these leachates are not appropriately managed, they can cause significant contamination in soil, surface water, and groundwater, hence posing a substantial pollution threat unless preventive actions are taken (Figi et al., 2018). This is a worldwide problem related to the climate system, characterised by slow and persistent precipitation. The movement of water through the deposition profile may be considerably enhanced by these precipitation patterns, leading to the rapid migration of leachates into the subsurface ecosystem (Abu-rukah et al., 2018). The leaching process occurs when rainwater infiltrates the topsoil and combines with residential waste that is loaded with toxic substances, such as heavy metals and PBDEs. Due to the absence of an effective collection and treatment mechanism in many outdated waste disposal systems, the issue of leachate is worsened (Tatsi, 2022). Multiple studies have shown that landfills with E-waste have significantly higher levels of hazardous compounds compared to landfills without E-waste (Wong et al., 2017). A study conducted by Babbar et al. (2017) revealed that leachate from electronic wastes is the primary factor responsible for contaminating the groundwater in the Gazipur, Delhi area.

Multiple studies have demonstrated that the disposal of electronic trash (E-waste) can lead to the release of harmful metals and polyhalogenated organic compounds, such as PBDEs. This poses a significant threat to both the environment and public health when these substances are released into the surroundings (Robinson et al., 2021). Hence, the ongoing indiscriminate dumping/disposal of waste presents a significant risk to both public health and the environment. Developing countries without regulatory guidelines and sufficient financial support face ongoing difficulties in establishing new recycling and dismantling facilities. E-waste has been identified as the source of around 70% of the heavy metals present in leachates (Weiss et al., 2017). Unregulated disposal of electronic trash can have a harmful impact on both groundwater and soil fertility. In addition, they can release toxins that can lead to respiratory problems and carcinogens that can potentially cause cancer in both humans and animals.

E-waste management procedures in Cameroon are frequently insufficient due to weak infrastructure, resources, and legislative frameworks. A significant number of electronic waste items are either disposed of in landfills or informally recycled under hazardous conditions. Commonly employed informal recycling methods, including as open burning and acid baths, are utilised to recover valuable metals. However, these processes can lead to the emission of dangerous compounds into the environment (Kan et al., 2023). This inadequate management worsens the dangers of soil and water pollution. The ecological ramifications of electronic trash on the soil and water in Cameroon have become progressively evident. Soil contamination arises when toxic compounds from electronic waste seep into the soil, causing detrimental effects on soil health and fertility. Research has recorded the existence of high levels of metallic elements in the soil in locations where electronic trash is discarded. These metals can impede the growth of plants and have the potential to enter the food chain (Garlough et al., 2022). Aquatic ecosystems, such as rivers and lakes, are equally impacted. E-waste contaminants have the potential to move into water sources via runoff or leachate, resulting in the pollution of drinking water and aquatic habitats. The contamination can have adverse impacts on the quality of water, cause harm to aquatic organisms, and provide health hazards to nearby communities (Zhu et al., 2020). This study aims to assess the impact of e-waste on water and soil in Cameroon. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

The rapid increase in the consumption of electronic devices globally has led to a corresponding rise in electronic waste (e-waste), which poses significant environmental and public health challenges. In Cameroon, as in many developing countries, e-waste is often managed through informal and inadequate disposal methods, leading to severe environmental impacts, particularly on soil and water systems.

Cameroon lacks a comprehensive and formalized e-waste management infrastructure, which exacerbates the problem of e-waste disposal. Informal recycling practices, such as open burning and acid leaching, are commonly employed to recover valuable metals from e-waste. These practices release hazardous substances into the environment, leading to soil and water contamination (Kan et al., 2023; Chia et al., 2019). The absence of proper disposal facilities and regulatory frameworks further compounds the issue. The improper disposal of e-waste results in the release of toxic substances into the environment. Hazardous chemicals from e-waste, including heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium, can leach into the soil and contaminate water sources (Zhu et al., 2020; Ruchirawat et al., 2021). This contamination not only affects soil health, leading to reduced fertility and agricultural productivity, but also impacts water quality, posing risks to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. The contamination of soil and water with e-waste pollutants poses significant health risks to local communities. Exposure to heavy metals and other toxic substances can lead to a range of health issues, including neurological damage, respiratory problems, and developmental disorders in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women (Baldé et al., 2017; Garlough et al., 2022). The health implications are particularly concerning in areas where informal e-waste recycling is prevalent. 

Despite the growing concern over e-waste, there is a lack of comprehensive data on its specific impacts on soil and water in Cameroon. Most existing studies provide broad overviews of e-waste management issues without focusing on the detailed environmental effects in the Cameroonian context. This gap in research limits the ability to develop targeted interventions and effective management strategies (Nriagu, 2018; Fadhl et al., 2021). Given these issues, there is a pressing need for a detailed evaluation of the effects of e-waste on soil and water in Cameroon. This study aims to address this gap by providing a thorough assessment of contamination levels, understanding the pathways through which pollutants spread, and evaluating the broader environmental and public health implications. The findings will be essential for informing policy development, improving waste management practices, and protecting both environmental and public health. 

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically evaluate electronic waste on water and soil in Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To determine how E-Waste contaminates water and soil in Cameroon

To examine the Impact of E-Waste on Soil Health and Fertility

To investigate the Effects of E-Waste Contaminants on Water Quality

To assess the impact of e-waste pollutants on local aquatic ecosystems

To analyze the Impact of E-Waste on Public Health through Water and Soil Contamination

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

How does E-Waste contaminate water and soil in Cameroon?

What is the Impact of E-Waste on Soil Health and Fertility?

What is the Effects of E-Waste Contaminants on Water Quality?

What is the impact of e-waste pollutants on local aquatic ecosystems?

What is the Impact of E-Waste on Public Health through Water and Soil Contamination?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: E-waste does not contaminate water and soil in Cameroon.

Ha: E-waste contaminates water and soil in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the study

The assessment of electronic waste (e-waste) impact on water and soil in Cameroon holds great importance due to various causes, all of which contribute to enhancing environmental and public health outcomes, as well as providing guidance for policy and management methods.

The study will evaluate the influence of electronic waste on the quality of soil and water, providing essential data on the degree of pollution caused by dangerous compounds. This information is crucial for formulating precise methods to alleviate environmental harm. Enhanced comprehension of contamination levels and origins will facilitate the adoption of efficient environmental safeguarding measures, such as enhanced waste management protocols and remediation methodologies. This can result in the promotion of healthier ecosystems and the adoption of more sustainable practices in the utilization of natural resources.

Moreover, the project will provide empirically supported insights into the ecological impacts of electronic trash, which are crucial for understanding and improving laws and regulations concerning electronic waste management in Cameroon. Implementing more robust policies and regulations can result in stricter measures for the disposal and recycling of electronic waste, enhanced enforcement of environmental standards, and the establishment of structured systems for managing electronic waste. This will assist in rectifying deficiencies in existing legislation and enhancing the overall regulatory structure.

Furthermore, the study will emphasize the potential health consequences for local people by drawing attention to the concerns linked to e-waste pollution of soil and water. This encompasses the encounter with hazardous compounds that can result in severe health complications. The results will provide valuable insights for public health actions and awareness campaigns targeting the reduction of exposure to harmful e-waste compounds. This has the potential to enhance public health results, especially for susceptible demographics like youngsters and expectant mothers.

Furthermore, tackling e-waste problems is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely those pertaining to responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and promoting excellent health and well-being (SDG 3). The report advances these objectives by advocating for more sustainable and accountable procedures in the management of electronic trash. The study bolsters broader endeavors to attain sustainability by promoting behaviors that diminish environmental effect and safeguard human health. This fosters the holistic advancement of communities that are both sustainable and resilient.

Furthermore, it is imperative to comprehend the ecological and medical consequences of electronic trash (e-waste) in order to effectively educate local people about the significance of appropriate e-waste disposal and recycling. Heightened consciousness can result in more conscientious actions for the management of electronic trash, such as improved recycling methods and decreased incorrect disposal. This can promote active participation and encourage public support for efforts aimed at managing electronic trash.

Moreover, there is a conspicuous dearth of comprehensive research on the precise effects of electronic waste on the soil and water in Cameroon. The objective of this study is to address this deficiency by conducting a thorough examination of the levels of contamination and the routes via which it occurs. The research will yield invaluable data that can inform future studies and research endeavors. Furthermore, it would facilitate comprehension of concerns and difficulties relevant to each location, hence enhancing decision-making and interventions based on well-informed insights.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically evaluate electronic waste on water and soil in Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to determine how E-Waste contaminates water and soil in Cameroon, examine the Impact of E-Waste on Soil Health and Fertility in Cameroon and investigate the Effects of E-Waste Contaminants on Water Quality in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on assessing the impact of e-waste pollutants on local aquatic ecosystems in Cameroon and it also seeks to analyze the Impact of E-Waste on Public Health through Water and Soil Contamination.

 The study is carried out in Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the analysis, the researchers noted inherent limits that are present in all human behaviors. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, resulting from the scarcity of data on the assessment of the impact of electronic waste on water and soil in Cameroon. Therefore, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to determine the appropriate materials, books, or information and gather data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and confined geographical scope, mostly focused on Cameroon. Therefore, the generalizability of the findings from this study is restricted, highlighting the need for more research. 

Moreover, the limitations faced by the researcher were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student who lacks the requisite financial means to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation rates at the research site posed a challenge in meeting the financial obligations related to transportation expenses.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational pursuits.

1.9 Definition of terms

E-waste: E-waste (electronic waste) includes anything with plugs, cords and electronic components. Common sources of e-waste include televisions, computers, mobile phones and any type of home appliance, from air conditioners to children's toys. Piles of mixed electronic waste.

E-waste management: E-waste management refers to properly disposing and managing electronic waste, including old or discarded electronic gadgets such as phones, computers, and televisions. The process involves the collection, transportation, recycling, refurbishing, and disposal of electronic waste in an environmentally-friendly manner.

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