Ss36-04 Occupational and Environmental Health Perspectives on Informal E-Waste Processing in Ghana: A Multi-Year Research Study

Abstract Introduction This presentation provides an overview of findings from a multi-year research study examining the occupational and environmental health consequences of informal e-waste processing at Agbogbloshie, in Ghana, adjacent to Accra’s largest food market and one of the major e-waste recycling hubs in the world. Materials and Methods Empirical studies conducted by the GEOHealth-II research team. Results Our findings indicate significant health consequences of informal e-waste recycling activities on both environment and human health, including e-waste workers as well as the adjacent general population. For instance, the dismantling of cathode ray tube monitor with rudimentary tools to recover copper and steel also result in the release and inhalation of organic compounds such as flame retardants, formaldehyde and combustion products such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybromated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), furans, dioxins and cadmium dust. Burning of copper wires results in emission of dioxins and furans. Heavy metals and other harmful chemicals including oxides of lead, chromium and mercury, accumulate in water, soil and food as a result of the recycling activities. Direct exposures to these toxic substances affect the respiratory, immune, digestive, reproductive, and central nervous systems. Conclusions Growing evidence points to the hazardous work conditions and environmental pollution from informal e-waste recycling in Agbogbloshie, with direct and indirect consequences on workers and the community. Confronting this challenge will require interdisciplinary cooperation of multiple international stakeholders.