EPA takes steps to ensure safe handling of e-waste

Kumasi, May 12, GNA - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to ensure safe handling of electronic waste (e-waste) in the Ashanti Region.

Mr. Samuel Oteng, the Regional Director of the Agency, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that, a collection point, where these would be deposited was being set up in Kumasi.

Three private companies, he indicated, had expressed interest in working with the EPA on this project.

He said the waste materials would be properly kept before finally transported to Agbobgloshie in Accra, where the Agency together with Societe Generale de Surveillance S.A, a multinational company with its headquarters in Geneva, had built a plant to re-cycle e-waste in the country.

The moves comes amid a warning by the World Health Organization (WHO) that improper disposal and management of e-waste could pose serious environmental problems.

Ghana's parliament had passed a law - the hazardous and electronic waste control management Act to ensure sound e-waste management.

He reminded everybody in possession of an unwanted electrical gadget that, they were required by law to make sure these were sent to the designated disposal point for recycling.

Broken down computers, monitors, television sets and other electronic goods imported under the false label of 'second hand goods' together with clinical and production waste are among waste that are going to be recycled.

Mr. Oteng hinted of collaboration with the security agencies to check the importation of hazardous electronic devices.

He advised people not to burn discarded electronic appliances because of the serious health risks.

Waste appliances contain harmful toxins and gases which could pollute water bodies and the soil. GNA

By Josephine Nyarkoh, GNA