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Electronic Waste Characterization and Management (Generation and Computation) in Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Main Campus

Olaniyan O.S., Ayinde R.B., Adeoti A.O., Alabi A.J.

Abstract


Electronic waste (E-waste) produced as a result of obsolete equipment poses health and environmental hazard to life. There exists little or no information about the volume and characterization of electronic waste produced in main campus of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso Oyo State Nigeria. This study assessed the generation and computation of E-waste in LAUTECH for proper solid waste management within the University. A survey was conducted to determine the quantity of each of the electronic equipment in the selected sections of the institution. Two hundred (200) questionnaires were prepared and distributed across the institution staff, personnel and a few students, to track information regarding E-waste generation and awareness. The Volume of E-waste generated and the average life span of electrical equipment in the University were estimated. From the questionnaire, it was gathered that 70% of the respondents are not aware of the term E-waste. The statistical result also shows that above 75% of the respondent are not aware of the volume and disposal system. There are virtually no E-waste collectors in the environs of the institution, leaving collection of E-waste to scrap metal scavengers. The volume of E-waste produced in the University was 20,073 kg/year. The estimated average life of electrical equipment in the University varied from 1-5 years. The computed volume of electrical equipment generated in the University was approximately 20 Tonnes/year. The result can serve as baseline information for effective solid waste disposal in the University.

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References


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