E-Waste management in selected institutions in Colombo and Gampaha Districts

Abstract

Electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the most rapidly growing environmental problems in the world including Sri Lanka. This preliminary study was carried out to identify the attempts of e-waste management in selected institutions in Colombo and Gampaha districts. A questionnaire survey followed by interviews was carried out among randomly selected 20 institutions in Colombo and Gampaha districts. Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze data. Results revealed that about 55% of respondents reuse their e-waste and 15% of respondents continue recycling the discarded e-waste. Most respondents (95%) has knowledge on e-waste and the effects of unsafe disposal. In addition, 60% of respondents were not aware of any projects or activities on e-waste management by government and local authorities. However, most of the types of electronic devices that are used by these institutions were more or less similar. Further, the survey revealed that the respondents showed willingness to contribute to e-waste management and willingness to pay or willingness to accept for a green product which will not harm the health of human and the environment. The study suggests to conduct proper awareness programmes to the employees in the institutions on handing over, disposal and management of e-waste. In addition, proper monitoring programmes of recycling or disposal is utmost important as e-waste contains a substantial amount of valuable recyclable materials and has potential to become a lucrative business in the country.