AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE OF STUDENTS OF UNIVERSITY OF CAPE

COAST ON E-WASTE

John .K.E. Edumadze1, Francis Cudjoe2, Gladys E. Edumadze3

1
Corresponding Author, Computer Centre, University of Cape Coast, Ghana

2
Dept of Physics, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
3
Institute of Educational Planning and Administration, University of Cape
Coast, Ghana

Abstract:

Electronic waste (e-waste) has become the main contributor of lead (Pb) to
landfills in the U.S. (EPA 2000). According to UNEP and UNU report in 2008,
e-waste is a major problem in countries such as China and India, which there
are mountains of e-waste to be dealt with. This important subject is not
discussed in both the print and electronic media in Ghana. Therefore this
paper seeks to find out the e-waste awareness of students of the University
of Cape Coast, Ghana. The major finding is that 60% of the respondents
have not heard of e-waste and for that matter they are unaware of its effect
on their health and the environmental. Recommendation was give to reverse
this unfortunately situation by so doing minimise its impact in Ghana.

Keywords: electronic waste, e-waste, awareness, recycle, reuse, disposal