Transforming the e-waste Management Sector in Ghana: Progress on Regulatory and Institutional Strengthening

Informal recycling of e-waste in Ghana particularly at Agbogbloshie has attracted global attention. The environmental and health impacts of open burning of e-waste have been well researched. To avert the unsound management practices, Ghana has received extensive support from NGOs, development partners and research Institutions. This paper discusses Ghana’s progress in transforming the e-waste management sector with particular emphasis on policy, regulatory and institutional strengthening. Data was collected through the review of scientific literature, local media and NGO reports. In addition, informal discussions were held with some informal e-waste recyclers at the Agbogbloshie e-waste site. E-waste specific policy/regulatory frameworks are the Hazardous and Electronic Waste Control and Management Act, 2016 (Act 917), Hazardous, Electronic and other Wastes Control and Management Regulations, 2016 (LI 2250) and Technical Guidelines on Environmentally Sound E-waste Management in Ghana. One of the greatest achievements in terms of institutional strengthening is the selection of Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS) for the collection of advance eco levy pursuant to Sect. 21 of Act 917. Amid these achievements, the following gaps require immediate attention: formalizing the e-waste sector, enforcing e-waste regulations and guidelines, intensifying public education and promoting public private partnership.