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Okeke ES, Enochoghene A, Ezeudoka BC, Kaka SD, Chen Y, Mao G, ThankGod Eze C, Feng W, Wu X. A review of heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities: Recommendations and future perspectives. Toxicology 2024; 501:153711. [PMID: 38123013 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In Africa, the effects of informal e-waste recycling on the environment are escalating. It is regularly transported from developed to developing nations, where it is disassembled informally in search of precious metals, thus increasing human exposure to harmful compounds. Africa has a serious problem with e-waste, as there are significant facilities in Ghana and Nigeria where imported e-waste is unsafely dismantled. however, because they are in high demand and less expensive than new ones, old electronic and electrical items are imported in large quantities, just like in many developing nations. After that, these objects are frequently scavenged to recover important metals through heating, burning, incubation in acids, and other techniques. Serious health hazards are associated with these activities for workers and individuals close to recycling plants. At e-waste sites in Africa, there have been documented instances of elevated concentrations of hazardous elements, persistent organic pollutants, and heavy metals in dust, soils, and vegetation, including plants consumed as food. Individuals who handle and dispose of e-waste are exposed to highly hazardous chemical substances. This paper examines heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities. Elevated concentrations of these heavy metals metal in downstream aquatic and marine habitats have resulted in additional environmental impacts. These effects have been associated with unfavourable outcomes in marine ecosystems, such as reduced fish stocks characterized by smaller sizes, increased susceptibility to illness, and decreased population densities. The evidence from the examined studies shows how much e-waste affects human health and the environment in Africa. Sub-Saharan African nations require a regulatory framework that includes specialized laws, facilities, and procedures for the safe recycling and disposal of e-waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science & Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Steve Dokpo Kaka
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Guanghua Mao
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | | | - Weiwei Feng
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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Njoku A, Agbalenyo M, Laude J, Ajibola TF, Attah MA, Sarko SB. Environmental Injustice and Electronic Waste in Ghana: Challenges and Recommendations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 21:25. [PMID: 38248490 PMCID: PMC10815197 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) or discarded electronic devices that are unwanted, not working, or have reached their end of life pose significant threats to human and environmental health. This is a major concern in Africa, where the majority of e-waste is discarded. In the year 2021, an estimated 57.4 million metric tons of e-waste were generated worldwide. Globally, COVID-19 lockdowns have contributed to increased e-waste generation. Although Africa generates the least of this waste, the continent has been the dumping ground for e-waste from the developed world. The flow of hazardous waste from the prosperous 'Global North' to the impoverished 'Global South' is termed "toxic colonialism". Agbogbloshie, Ghana, an e-waste hub where about 39% of e-waste was treated, was listed among the top 10 most polluted places in the world. The discard of e-waste in Ghana presents an issue of environmental injustice, defined as the disproportionate exposure of communities of color and low-income communities to pollution, its associated health and environmental effects, and the unequal environmental protection provided through policies. Despite the economic benefits of e-waste, many civilians (low-income earners, settlers, children, and people with minimal education) are exposed to negative health effects due to poverty, lack of education, and weak regulations. We critically examine the existing literature to gather empirical information on e-waste and environmental injustice. Comprehensive policies and regulations are needed to manage e-waste locally and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuli Njoku
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Martin Agbalenyo
- Southwestern AHEC, Inc., 5 Research Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, USA;
| | - Janaya Laude
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Taiwo Folake Ajibola
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn School of Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030, USA;
| | - Mavis Asiwome Attah
- Department of Environmental Health and Sanitation, Akuapem North Municipal Assembly, Akropong-Akuapem P.O. Box 100, Ghana;
| | - Samuel Bruce Sarko
- Department of International Development, Presbyterian University, Akropong-Akuapem P.O. Box 393, Ghana;
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Bimpong FAK, Asibey MO, Inkoom DKB. Ghana's recently introduced e-waste regulatory policy: A hope for a better e-waste sector? WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023:734242X231204457. [PMID: 37904506 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231204457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste), often dominated by the informal sector, has had adverse effects on recipient developing countries' economies, health and physical environment. Ghana, over the years, has had support from international organisations to manage its e-waste crisis. Until 2016, there was no e-waste specific policy to guide the management of the sector. In 2016, Ghana passed a regulatory policy - Act 917 - to specifically deal with e-waste, supported by other frameworks such as a regulatory instrument (L.I. 2250), a technical guideline for environmentally sound e-waste management and an e-waste-specific policy, which is currently being developed. However, there is dearth of research on how effectively a regulatory policy such as Act 917 can help address an informally dominated sector whose crude recycling approaches have had great environmental and health impacts. Adapting the analytical framework and intervention theory, key stakeholders within the e-waste sector were interviewed on: the effectiveness of the Act, the challenges confronting them and their involvement in the design and implementation processes. The findings showed that stakeholders were represented at various stages of the process. Informal recyclers were provided with training programmes, health centres and an incentive scheme to minimise burning of electrical and electronic equipment. There however exist many challenges to the sound management of the sector, particularly, the lack of end-to-end recycling facilities, registering and formalising the sector and sequencing of the e-waste policy and regulatory framework. The research concludes by recommending areas for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Osei Asibey
- Department of Planning, College of Art and Built Environment, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Daniel Kweku Baah Inkoom
- Department of Planning, College of Art and Built Environment, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Architecture and Planning, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Andeobu L, Wibowo S, Grandhi S. Informal E-waste recycling practices and environmental pollution in Africa: What is the way forward? Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 252:114192. [PMID: 37348165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Globally, e-waste is the fastest growing and most valuable waste-stream. While countries worldwide are increasingly acknowledging the e-waste problem and introducing policies and regulations that deal with e-waste, large quantities of e-waste still go undocumented. Much of these global e-wastes are accumulating in open-dumpsites and landfills in African-countries where they are recycled informally resulting in significant environmental and public-health concerns. Although, there is a plethora of studies on e-waste management and disposal, only a few-studies have focused on African-countries who are major recipients of e-waste. Moreover, despite the attempts to mitigate the problem of e-waste in African-countries, e-waste has remained a major-concern and there are currently very limited workable solutions. This study examines informal e-waste recycling, environmental pollution and the extent of environmental and health impacts in major countries of concern including Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa. The global e-waste Waste Atlas Report, 2020 identified these countries as major recipients of e-waste. To achieve the aims of this research, previous studies from 2005 to 2022 are collected from various databases and analyzed. Accordingly, this study focuses on environmental pollution and public-health impacts resulting from e-waste dumping and informal recycling practices, illegal transboundary shipment of e-waste to the selected countries, and the interventions of governments and international organizations in reducing the impact of e-waste pollution and informal recycling practices in Africa. Based on the outcomes of this study, practical approaches on the way-forward are recommended. The findings of this study contribute to a growing-body of research on informal e-waste recycling practices in Africa to document that individuals working within e-waste sites and residents in nearby communities are exposed to a number of toxic-substances, some at potentially concerning levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Andeobu
- Central Queensland University, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Santoso Wibowo
- Central Queensland University, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
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Wang Z, Xue K, Wang Z, Zhu X, Guo C, Qian Y, Li X, Li Z, Wei Y. Effects of e-waste exposure on biomarkers of coronary heart disease (CHD) and their associations with level of heavy metals in blood. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:49850-49857. [PMID: 35218494 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15656-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Excess heavy metals increase the risk of various diseases. Electronic waste (e-waste) is a potential route to heavy metal exposure, and Taizhou is a large e-waste dismantling area in China. In this study, we acquire blood samples from residents living near an e-waste recycling area (exposed group) and other residents in a selected reference area (reference group) for a comparative study in Taizhou in December 2017. Seven heavy metals, including cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), tin (Sn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb), are quantitatively determined in all blood samples. It is discovered that the levels of Co, Ni, Sn, and Pb in the exposed group are higher than those in the reference group. Additionally, two crucial biomarkers of coronary heart disease (CHD), i.e., troponin (Tn) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), and two biomarkers of oxidative stress, i.e., malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-isoprostane (8-I), are measured. We discovered that the levels of these indicators in the exposed group are significantly higher than those in the reference group. Meanwhile, both the Spearman correlation and multiple linear regression analysis show that Ni is positively correlated with Tn, MPO, 8-I, and MDA. Hence, we hypothesize that exposure to e-waste increases the risk of CHD and that Ni is an important contributor to the initiation of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kaibing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhanshan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yongjie Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Decharat S, Kiddee P. Assessment of knowledge, attitude, perceptions and risk assessment among workers in e-waste recycling shops, Thailand. Environ Anal Health Toxicol 2022; 37:e2022003-0. [PMID: 35255682 PMCID: PMC9058102 DOI: 10.5620/eaht.2022003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions, to study the health effects, and to investigate the concentration of Pb and Cd in indoor dust samples, drinking water samples, and personal air samples and to assess the health risk among workers who worked at e-waste recycling shops in the southern region, Thailand. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among workers from 136 electronic waste recycling stores in Southern Thailand, between January and July 2021. The study questionnaire was given to the 272 e-waste workers participating. Indoor dust, drinking water, and personal air samples were collected 27 e-waste shops and the concentrations of Pb and Cd in all samples were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Descriptive statistics and the simple linear regression were used to analyze. Overall, 176 employees (64.7%) suffered nasal irritation, 181 employees (66.5%) reported coughing/sneezing, and 163 employees (59.9%) had inconvenient breathing/jamming symptoms. Also, 158 employees (58.1%) had skin peeling symptoms, and 188 employees (69.1%) had muscle aches. The results indicate the positive influence of increasing knowledge and attitudes on the average practice score. The hazardous index (HI)-values of indoor dust samples, drinking water samples, and personal air samples were less than 1, was considered health-protective. The results will provide the direct evidence needed by e-waste managers to warn learners. Thus, there is a need for education programme to increase knowledge among the workers. In addition, information dissemination, involvement with organizations and associations is a necessity for workers in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somsiri Decharat
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Thaksin University, Thailand
| | - Peeranart Kiddee
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Thaksin University, Thailand
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Perceived Stress at Work and Associated Factors among E-Waste Workers in French-Speaking West Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020851. [PMID: 35055673 PMCID: PMC8775860 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Perceived stress at work is an important risk factor that affects the mental and physical health of workers. This study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with perceived stress in the informal electronic and electrical equipment waste processing sector in French-speaking West Africa. From 14 to 21 November 2019, a cross-sectional survey was carried out among e-waste workers in five countries in the French-speaking West African region, and participants were selected by stratified random sampling. Participants were interviewed on socio-demographic variables and characteristics related to e-waste management activities using a questionnaire incorporating Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (10-item version). Factors associated with perceived stress were determined by multivariate logistic regression. A total of 740 e-waste workers were interviewed. The mean age of the workers was 34.59 ± 11.65 years, with extremes of 14 and 74 years. Most of the interviewees were repairers (43.11%). The prevalence of perceived stress among the e-waste workers was 76.76%. Insufficient income, number of working days per week, perceived violence at work, and the interference of work with family responsibilities or leisure were the risk factors that were the most associated with perceived stress. The high prevalence of perceived stress and its associated factors call for consideration and improvement of the working conditions of e-waste workers.
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Kwarteng L, Devasurendra AM, Laskaris Z, Arko-Mensah J, Amoabeng Nti AA, Takyi S, Acquah AA, Dwomoh D, Basu N, Robins T, Fobil JN, Batterman S. Occupational exposures to particulate matter and PM 2.5-associated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at the Agbogbloshie waste recycling site in Ghana. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 158:106971. [PMID: 34991242 PMCID: PMC8745907 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) disposal and recycling activities such as burning and smelting can emit particulate matter (PM), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other pollutants that expose workers and nearby communities. At informal e-waste recycling facilities, both emission controls and protective measures for workers are absent. This study characterizes personal exposures (breathing zone) of PM and PAHs of e-waste workers at the large Agbogbloshie e-waste site in Accra, Ghana. We collected gravimetric and optical measurements of PM2.5 and PM10 using shift samples for workers and for an age- and gender-matched reference population. PM2.5 filters were analyzed for 26 PAHs using gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. Among e-waste workers, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were 99 ± 56 and 218 ± 158 µg/m3 (median ± interquartile range, optical measurements), respectively; these levels were 78 and 57% higher, respectively, than levels measured at a fixed site that was centrally located at the waste site. In the reference community, breathing zone PM2.5 and PM10 levels were lower, 49 ± 20 and 131 ± 108 µg/m3, respectively, and the fraction of coarse PM was larger. We detected all 26 target PAHs, of which naphthalene and phenanthrene were the most abundant. PAH concentrations were weakly correlated to PM levels, but PAH abundances, representing the fraction of PAH mass to the total PM2.5 mass collected, were strongly and inversely correlated to PM levels, suggesting multiple and different sources of PAHs and PM that affected exposures. Both PM and PAH levels were elevated for workers performing burning and dismantling, and both exceeded standards or risk-based guidelines, e.g., lifetime excess cancer risks for several PAHs were in the 10-4 to 10-6 range, indicating the need to reduce emissions as well as provide respiratory protection. The study emphasizes the importance of using personal and shift samples to accurately characterize worker exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrencia Kwarteng
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Amila M Devasurendra
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Zoey Laskaris
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Afua A Amoabeng Nti
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sylvia Takyi
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine A Acquah
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nil Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Thomas Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stuart Batterman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Amoabeng Nti AA, Robins TG, Mensah JA, Dwomoh D, Kwarteng L, Takyi SA, Acquah A, Basu N, Batterman S, Fobil JN. Personal exposure to particulate matter and heart rate variability among informal electronic waste workers at Agbogbloshie: a longitudinal study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2161. [PMID: 34823492 PMCID: PMC8613947 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12241-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal electronic waste recycling activities are major contributors to ambient air pollution, yet studies assessing the effects or relationship between direct/continuous exposure of informal e-waste workers to particulate matter and cardiovascular function are rare. METHODS Repeated measurements of fractions of PM2.5, PM10-2.5, and PM10 in personal air of informal e-waste workers, (n = 142) and a comparable group (n = 65) were taken over a period of 20 months (March 2017 to November, 2018). Concurrently, 5-min resting electrocardiogram was performed on each participant to assess resting heart rate variability indices. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the association between PM fractions and cardiac function. RESULTS SDNN, RMSSD, LF, HF and LH/HF ratio were all associated with PM. Significant associations were observed for PM2.5 and Mean NN (p = 0.039), PM10 and SDNN (p = 0.035) and PM 10-2.5 and LH/HF (p = 0.039). A 10 μg/m3 increase in the concentrations of PM 2.5, PM10-2.5, and PM10 in personal air was associated with reduced HRV indices and increased resting HR. A 10 μg/m3 per interquartile (IQR) increase in PM10-2.5 and PM10, decreased SDNN by 11% [(95% CI: - 0.002- 0.000); (p = 0.187)] and 34% [(95% CI: - 0.002-0.001); (p = 0.035)] respectively. However, PM2.5 increased SDNN by 34% (95% CI: - 1.32-0.64); (p = 0.493). Also, 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, PM10-2.5 and PM10 decreased RMSSD by 27% [(- 1.34-0.79); (p = 0.620)], 11% [(- 1.73, 0.95); (p = 0.846)] and 0.57% [(- 1.56-0.46); (p = 0.255%)]. CONCLUSION Informal e-waste workers are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease from cardiac autonomic dysfunction as seen in reduced HRV and increased heart rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afua A. Amoabeng Nti
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas G. Robins
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - John Arko Mensah
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lawrencia Kwarteng
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sylvia A. Takyi
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine Acquah
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Niladri Basu
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - Stuart Batterman
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
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Lin N, Kwarteng L, Godwin C, Warner S, Robins T, Arko-Mensah J, Fobil JN, Batterman S. Airborne volatile organic compounds at an e-waste site in Ghana: Source apportionment, exposure and health risks. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 419:126353. [PMID: 34175701 PMCID: PMC9925107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Informal e-waste recycling processes emit various air pollutants. While there are a number of pollutants of concern, little information exists on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) releases at e-waste sites. To assess occupational exposures and estimate health risks, we measured VOC levels at the Agbogbloshie e-waste site in Ghana, the largest e-waste site in Africa, by collecting both fixed-site and personal samples for analyzing a wide range of VOCs. A total of 54 VOCs were detected, dominated by aliphatic and aromatic compounds. Mean and median concentrations of the total target VOCs were 46 and 37 μg/m3 at the fixed sites, and 485 and 162 μg/m3 for the personal samples. Mean and median hazard ratios were 2.1 and 1.4, respectively, and cancer risks were 4.6 × 10-4 and 1.5 × 10-4. These risks were predominantly driven by naphthalene and benzene; chloroform and formaldehyde were also high in some samples. Based on the VOC composition, the major sources were industry, fuel evaporation and combustion. The concentration gradient across sites and the similarity of VOC profiles indicated that the e-waste site emissions reached neighboring communities. Our results suggest the need to protect e-waste workers from VOC exposure, and to limit emissions that can expose nearby populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48109; Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China 200025
| | - Lawrencia Kwarteng
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Ghana, School of Public Health, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Christopher Godwin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48109
| | - Sydni Warner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48109
| | - Thomas Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48109
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Ghana, School of Public Health, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Ghana, School of Public Health, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stuart Batterman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48109.
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Risque chimique et santé respiratoire des manipulateurs des déchets d’équipements électriques et électroniques (DEEE) à Dakar (Sénégal). ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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12
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Fobil J, Abotsi P, Acquah AA, Arko-Mensah J, D'Souza C, Martin B. Occupational and Environmental Health Effects of Informal Electronic Waste Recycling - A Focus on Agbogbloshie, Ghana. PROCEEDINGS OF THE 21ST CONGRESS OF THE INTERNATIONAL ERGONOMICS ASSOCIATION (IEA 2021). VOLUME IV, HEALTHCARE AND HEALTHY WORK. INTERNATIONAL ERGONOMICS ASSOCIATION. CONGRESS 2021; 222:746-752. [PMID: 34263269 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-74611-7_102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The unregulated and unorganized structure of informal electronic waste recycling worksites exposes workers to numerous occupational hazards. This context also presents research challenges in collecting exposure data to establish linkages with adverse health effects and development of risk-mitigating strategies. This paper presents some findings from a 5-year multinational and multi-institutional collaboration of academic and government partners, which documented extensive occupational and environmental health conditions at the Agbogbloshie electronic waste site in central Accra, Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Fobil
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Priscillah Abotsi
- Legon Center for International Affairs & Diplomcy (LECIAD), P.O. Box LG25, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine A Acquah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Clive D'Souza
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2117, USA
| | - Bernard Martin
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2117, USA
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Zolnikov TR, Furio F, Cruvinel V, Richards J. A systematic review on informal waste picking: Occupational hazards and health outcomes. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 126:291-308. [PMID: 33794442 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Informal waste picking is a common way for people to earn an income, especially in low-income countries; unfortunately, there are various occupational hazards and health outcomes associated with waste picking. This study focused on comprehensively identifying and exploring occupational hazards and health outcomes associated with informal waste picking. A systematic review of available relevant and peer-reviewed literature was completed to exhaustively analyze the full scope of these hazards and outcomes associated with informal waste picking; 58 papers were included. The results from this study provided insight and information related to the most common occupational hazards and negative health outcomes associated with informal waste pickers outlined in available literature. The most common reported occupational hazards were physical (77.6%), social (70.7%), biological (65.5%), chemical and safety (53.4%), ergonomic (34.5%) and mechanic (25.9%). Health outcomes appeared to include epidermal (50.0%), communicable disease (46.6%), musculoskeletal (44.8%), respiratory disease (41.4%), non-communicable diseases (39.7%), physiological (34.5%), gastrointestinal (31.0%) and waterborne diseases (17.2%). Physical hazards were often associated with slips, trips, and falls, which makes sense because of the unstable environment where waste pickers work. Health outcomes related to these hazards included bruises, cuts, and lacerations. This information also aligns with health outcomes, as epidermal outcomes were most reported in waste pickers (50.0% of data). It is clear that moving forward, additional research related to these occupational hazards and health outcomes associated with informal waste picking is needed to help create change in this affected population, as well as finding effective solutions to mitigate these hazards and outcomes. These hazards can be mitigated by simple, common control measures, like providing safety equipment, reducing hazards from the outside environment (e.g., less time in sun, breaks, etc.), and placing barriers between waste pickers and the hazards (e.g., covered stations, flat ground, etc.) or more complex engineering, administrative or work controls. Because of the breadth of health problems faced by workers, more research is needed to correctly assess health outcomes (e.g. use of health practitioners) in waste pickers across time to ensure accurate data and a focused answer to the far-reaching problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Rava Zolnikov
- National University, San Diego, CA, USA; Californa Southern University, Costa Mesa, CA, USA; University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Frances Furio
- Californa Southern University, Costa Mesa, CA, USA; California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Adei D, Braimah I, Mensah JV, Acquah Mensah A, Agyemang-Duah W. Improving upon the working environment of informal sector workers in Ghana: The role of planning. COGENT MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/2331205x.2021.1911441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dina Adei
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Imoro Braimah
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - John Victor Mensah
- School for Development Studies University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Anthony Acquah Mensah
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Williams Agyemang-Duah
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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15
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Acquah AA, D'Souza C, Martin BJ, Arko-Mensah J, Botwe PK, Tettey P, Dwomoh D, Nti AA, Kwarteng L, Takyi S, Quakyi IA, Robins TG, Fobil JN. A PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICAL WORK EXPOSURES AMONG ELECTRONIC WASTE WORKERS AT AGBOGBLOSHIE, ACCRA GHANA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL ERGONOMICS 2021; 82:103096. [PMID: 33767518 PMCID: PMC7986988 DOI: 10.1016/j.ergon.2021.103096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure associated with unstructured, informal e-waste recycling has received very limited attention. This study aimed to quantify the occupational physical exposures among informal e-waste workers at the largest e-waste site in Africa. A cross-sectional field survey of 163 male e-waste workers was conducted using a self-report occupational physical activity questionnaire, along with direct work observations, and pedometer estimates of walking activity for a subset of workers (n = 42). Results indicated significant differences in self-reported 7-day work exposures among the three main e-waste job categories, namely, collectors (n = 70), dismantlers (n = 73) and burners (n = 20). Prolonged walking, sitting and standing on five or more days in the workweek was frequently reported by collectors (87%), dismantlers (82%) and burners (60%), respectively. Nearly 90% of collectors and burners and 60% of dismantlers reported lifting and carrying on five or more days in the workweek. The exposure combinations identified suggest a risk for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Findings call attention to the need for research examining potential associations between physical exposures and MSDs affecting e-waste workers in Agbogbloshie. The high exposure variability both between and within workers has implications for future exposure assessments conducted in unregulated, informal work settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine A. Acquah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Clive D'Souza
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bernard J. Martin
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Paul K. Botwe
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Prudence Tettey
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Afua Amoabeng Nti
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lawrencia Kwarteng
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sylvia Takyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Isabella A. Quakyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas G. Robins
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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16
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Acquah AA, D’Souza C, Martin BJ, Arko-Mensah J, Dwomoh D, Nti AAA, Kwarteng L, Takyi SA, Basu N, Quakyi IA, Robins TG, Fobil JN. Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms among Workers at an Informal Electronic-Waste Recycling Site in Agbogbloshie, Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2055. [PMID: 33669889 PMCID: PMC7923259 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Informal recycling of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) has myriad environmental and occupational health consequences, though information about the chronic musculoskeletal health effects on workers is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and intensity of self-reported musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms among e-waste workers at Agbogbloshie in Ghana-the largest informal e-waste dumpsite in West Africa-relative to workers not engaged in e-waste recycling. A standardized musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaire was administered to 176 e-waste workers (73 collectors, 82 dismantlers, and 21 burners) and 41 workers in a reference group. The number of body parts with musculoskeletal discomfort were 1.62 and 1.39 times higher for collectors and dismantlers than burners, respectively. A 1-week discomfort prevalence was highest for collectors (91.8%) followed by dismantlers (89%), burners (81%), and the reference group (70.7%). The discomfort prevalence for e-waste workers was highest in the lower back (65.9%), shoulders (37.5%), and knees (37.5%). Whole-body pain scores (mean ± SE) were higher for collectors (83.7 ± 10.6) than dismantlers (45.5 ± 7.6), burners (34.0 ± 9.1), and the reference group (26.4 ± 5.9). Differences in prevalence, location, and intensity of MSD symptoms by the e-waste job category suggest specific work-related morbidity. Symptom prevalence and intensity call attention to the high risk for MSDs and work disability among informal e-waste workers, particularly collectors and dismantlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine A. Acquah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Clive D’Souza
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2117, USA; (C.D.); (B.J.M.)
| | - Bernard J. Martin
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2117, USA; (C.D.); (B.J.M.)
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Afua Asabea Amoabeng Nti
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Lawrencia Kwarteng
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Sylvia A. Takyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC H9X 3V9, Canada;
| | - Isabella A. Quakyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Thomas G. Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA;
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
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Purchase D, Abbasi G, Bisschop L, Chatterjee D, Ekberg C, Ermolin M, Fedotov P, Garelick H, Isimekhai K, Kandile NG, Lundström M, Matharu A, Miller BW, Pineda A, Popoola OE, Retegan T, Ruedel H, Serpe A, Sheva Y, Surati KR, Walsh F, Wilson BP, Wong MH. Global occurrence, chemical properties, and ecological impacts of e-wastes (IUPAC Technical Report). PURE APPL CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1515/pac-2019-0502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
The waste stream of obsolete electronic equipment grows exponentially, creating a worldwide pollution and resource problem. Electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) comprises a heterogeneous mix of glass, plastics (including flame retardants and other additives), metals (including rare Earth elements), and metalloids. The e-waste issue is complex and multi-faceted. In examining the different aspects of e-waste, informal recycling in developing countries has been identified as a primary concern, due to widespread illegal shipments; weak environmental, as well as health and safety, regulations; lack of technology; and inadequate waste treatment structure. For example, Nigeria, Ghana, India, Pakistan, and China have all been identified as hotspots for the disposal of e-waste. This article presents a critical examination on the chemical nature of e-waste and the resulting environmental impacts on, for example, microbial biodiversity, flora, and fauna in e-waste recycling sites around the world. It highlights the different types of risk assessment approaches required when evaluating the ecological impact of e-waste. Additionally, it presents examples of chemistry playing a role in potential solutions. The information presented here will be informative to relevant stakeholders seeking to devise integrated management strategies to tackle this global environmental concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Purchase
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology , Middlesex University , The Burroughs , London NW4 4BT , UK
| | | | - Lieselot Bisschop
- Erasmus Initiative on Dynamics of Inclusive Prosperity & Erasmus School of Law , Erasmus University Rotterdam , P.O. Box 1738 – 3000 DR , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Debashish Chatterjee
- Faculty of Analytical Chemistry , University of Kalyani , Kalyani , Nadia , 741235 , India
| | - Christian Ekberg
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling , Chalmers University of Technology , SE-41296 , Göteborg , Sweden
| | - Mikhail Ermolin
- National University of Science and Technology “MISiS” , 4 Leninsky Prospect , Moscow , 119049 , Russia
| | - Petr Fedotov
- V.I. Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry and Analytical Chemistry , Russian Academy of Sciences , 19 Kosygin Street , Moscow , 119991 , Russia
| | - Hemda Garelick
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology , Middlesex University , The Burroughs , London NW4 4BT , UK
| | - Khadijah Isimekhai
- Ateda Ventures Limited , P.P. Box 13394 , Benin City , Edo State , Nigeria
| | - Nadia G. Kandile
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Women , Ain Shams University , Heliopolis , 11757 , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Mari Lundström
- Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CMET), School of Chemical Engineering , Aalto University , P.O. Box 16200 , AALTO , Finland
| | - Avtar Matharu
- Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Department of Chemistry , University of York , York , YO10 5DD , UK
| | | | - Antonio Pineda
- Departamento de Química Orgánica , Universidad de Córdoba, Edificio Marie Curie (C-3), Ctra Nnal IVa, Km 396 , Córdoba , E-14014 , Spain
| | - Oluseun E. Popoola
- Department of Chemical Science , Yaba College of Technology , Lagos , Nigeria
| | - Teodora Retegan
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling , Chalmers University of Technology , SE-41296 , Göteborg , Sweden
| | - Heinz Ruedel
- Department Environmental Specimen Bank and Elemental Analysis , Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (Fraunhofer IME) , Schmallenberg , 57392 , Germany
| | - Angela Serpe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture (DICAAR) and INSTM Unit , University of Cagliari and Environmental Geology and Geoengineering Institute of the National Research Council (IGAG-CNR) , Via Marengo 2 , Cagliari , 09123 , Italy
| | | | - Kiran R. Surati
- Department of Chemistry , Sardar Patel University , Vallabh Vidyanagar , Anand , Gujarat , 388120 , India
| | - Fiona Walsh
- Maynooth University , Maynooth , Co Kildare , Ireland
| | - Benjamin P. Wilson
- Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CMET), School of Chemical Engineering , Aalto University , P.O. Box 16200 , AALTO , Finland
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control , Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China; Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong , Tai Po , Hong Kong , China
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18
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Kaifie A, Schettgen T, Bertram J, Löhndorf K, Waldschmidt S, Felten MK, Kraus T, Fobil JN, Küpper T. Informal e-waste recycling and plasma levels of non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (NDL-PCBs) - A cross-sectional study at Agbogbloshie, Ghana. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 723:138073. [PMID: 32229383 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Informal e-waste recycling leads to a contamination of the workers with several hazardous substances, in particular heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) belong to the group of POPs and are suspected to be associated with adverse health effects. In particular lower chlorinated PCBs, such as the congeners PCB 28 and PCB 52 are a marker of occupational exposure. The aim of our study was to assess the occupational PCB exposure in e-waste workers in relation to their specific recycling task (e.g. dismantling, burning). Altogether, n = 88 e-waste workers and n = 196 control subjects have been included in this study. All plasma participant's samples were evaluated for the PCB congeners PCB 28, 52, 101, 138, 153, 180 and sum of NDL-indicator congeners by human biomonitoring. A significant difference could be detected for the lower chlorinated PCB congeners (PCB 28, 52, and 101) for e-waste workers in comparison to the control group. Analyzing specific recycling tasks, workers who dismantle and those who burn e-waste showed the highest plasma levels of PCB 28 and 52. In conclusion, e-waste workers showed occupational related elevated PCB levels. Although those levels did not exceed the BAT value, workers were contaminated with PCBs during their task. Occupational health and safety measure are therefore necessary to protect the worker's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kaifie
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Thomas Schettgen
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jens Bertram
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Katja Löhndorf
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Saskia Waldschmidt
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael K Felten
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Kraus
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas Küpper
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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19
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Adusei A, Arko-Mensah J, Dzodzomenyo M, Stephens J, Amoabeng A, Waldschmidt S, Löhndorf K, Agbeko K, Takyi S, Kwarteng L, Acquah A, Botwe P, Tettey P, Kaifie A, Felten M, Kraus T, Küpper T, Fobil J. Spatiality in Health: The Distribution of Health Conditions Associated with Electronic Waste Processing Activities at Agbogbloshie, Accra. Ann Glob Health 2020; 86:31. [PMID: 32211301 PMCID: PMC7082828 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.2630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A walk through the Agbogbloshie e-waste recycling site shows a marked heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of the different e-waste processing activities, which are likely to drive clustering of health conditions associated with the different activity type in each space. Objective of study To conduct a spatial assessment and analysis of health conditions associated with different e-waste activities at different activity spaces at Agbogbloshie. Methods A choropleth showing the various activity spaces at the Agbogbloshie e-waste site was produced by mapping boundaries of these spaces using Etrex GPS device and individuals working in each activity spaces were recruited and studied. Upon obtaining consent and agreeing to participate in the study, each subject was physically examined and assessed various health outcomes of interest via direct physical examination while characterizing and enumerating the scars, lacerations, abrasions, skin condition and cuts after which both systolic and diastolic blood pressure values were recorded alongside the administration of open and close ended questionnaires. All individuals working within each activity space and consented to participate were recruited; giving a total of one hundred and twelve (112) subjects in all. Results A study of the choropleth showed that health conditions associated e-waste processing activities were clustered in a fashion similar to the corresponding distribution of each activity. While a total of 96.2% of all the study subjects had cuts, the dismantlers had higher mix of scars, lacerations and abrasions. Abrasions were observed in 16.3% of the dismantlers. Scars were the most common skin condition and were observed on the skins of 93.6% of the subjects. Prevalence of burns among the study subjects was 23.1%. Developing hypertension was not associated with activity type and while a total of 90.2% of subjects had normal blood pressure and 9.8% of them were hypertensives. Finally, 98.2% of respondents felt the need to have a first aid clinic at the site with 96.4% and 97.3% willing to visit the clinic and pay for services respectively. Conclusion We conclude that while the observed injuries were random and were due purely to accidents without any role of spatial determinants such as the configuration, slope, topography and other subterranean features of the activity spaces, a strong association between the injuries and activity type was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul Botwe
- University of Ghana School of Public Health, GH
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20
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Health Consequences for E-Waste Workers and Bystanders-A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051534. [PMID: 32120921 PMCID: PMC7084368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Informal e-waste recycling is associated with several health hazards. Thus far, the main focus of research in the e-waste sector has been to assess the exposure site, such as the burden of heavy metals or organic pollutants. The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess the health consequences associated with informal e-waste recycling. A questionnaire-based assessment regarding occupational information, medical history, and current symptoms and complaints was carried out with a group of n = 84 e-waste workers and compared to a control cohort of n = 94 bystanders at the e-waste recycling site Agbogbloshie. E-waste workers suffered significantly more from work-related injuries, back pain, and red itchy eyes in comparison to the control group. In addition, regular drug use was more common in e-waste workers (25% vs. 6.4%). Both groups showed a noticeable high use of pain killers (all workers 79%). The higher frequency of symptoms in the e-waste group can be explained by the specific recycling tasks, such as burning or dismantling. However, the report also indicates that adverse health effects apply frequently to the control group. Occupational safety trainings and the provision of personal protection equipment are needed for all workers.
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Mudge SM, Pfaffhuber KA, Fobil JN, Bouman EA, Uggerud HT, Thorne RJ. Using elemental analyses and multivariate statistics to identify the off-site dispersion from informal e-waste processing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2019; 21:2042-2057. [PMID: 31693034 DOI: 10.1039/c9em00444k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) is informally processed and recycled in Agbogbloshie in Accra (Ghana), which may be the largest such site in West Africa. This industry can lead to significant environmental contamination. In this study, surface dust samples were collected at a range of sites within Accra to establish the offsite consequences of such activities. Fifty-one samples were collected and analysed for 69 elements by ICP-mass spectrometry after nitric acid digestion. The data indicated a significant enrichment in metals associated with solder and copper wire at the site itself and a downwind dispersion of this source material to a distance of approximately 2.0 km. Chlorine and bromine were also elevated at this site as residues from polyvinyl chloride combustion and flame retardants respectively. The elemental composition indicated that only low technology electrical equipment was being treated this way. Multivariate statistical analyses by principal components analysis and polytopic vector analysis identified three sources contributing to the system; (i) burn site residue dispersing within 2 km from the source site, (ii) marine matter on the beaches alone and (iii) the baseline soil conditions of the city of Accra. Risk ratios and hazard quotients developed from the measured concentrations indicated that copper was providing the greatest risk to inhabitants in most cases although nickel, vanadium, chromium and zinc also contributed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Mudge
- IMPACT, Norwegian Institute for Air Research (NILU), Instituttveien 18, 2007 Kjeller, Norway.
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Self-Reported Health and Metal Body Burden in an Electronic Waste Recycling Community in Northeastern Thailand. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 61:905-909. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Burns KN, Sayler SK, Neitzel RL. Stress, health, noise exposures, and injuries among electronic waste recycling workers in Ghana. J Occup Med Toxicol 2019; 14:1. [PMID: 30647766 PMCID: PMC6327403 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-018-0222-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling workers in low and middle-income countries have the potential for occupational injuries due to the nature of their work at informal e-waste sites. However, limited research exists on stress, noise, occupational injuries, and health risks associated with this work environment. This study evaluated injury experience, noise exposures, and stress risk factors among e-waste workers at the large recycling site in the Agbogbloshie market, Accra, Ghana. Methods Participants completed a survey addressing their work, health status, stress, exposures to several occupational hazards (including noise), use of personal protective equipment at work, and injury experience. A subset of participants also completed personal noise dosimetry measurements. Poisson regression was used to evaluate the association between the number of injuries experienced by participants and various factors evaluated in the survey. Results Forty-six male e-waste workers completed the survey, and 26 completed a noise dosimetry measurement. Participants experienced an average of 9.9 ± 9.6 injuries per person in the previous 6 months (range: 1–40). The majority of injuries were lacerations (65.2%), and the most common injury location was the hand (45.7%). Use of personal protective equipment was rare. The mean time-weighted average noise level was 78.8 ± 5.9 dBA. Higher perceived stress, greater age, poorer health status, not using gloves, and involvement in dismantling activities were associated with an increased number of injuries. After controlling for each of these risk factors, perceived stress level and perceived noise exposure were associated with a significantly greater number of injuries. Conclusions Our study identified a large number of injuries among informal e-waste recyclers, and we found that higher levels of perceived stress and perceived noise were associated with an increased number of occupational injuries, even after controlling for other injury risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina N Burns
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Stephanie K Sayler
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
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