E-Waste Management and Circular Economy Challenges in Côte d'Ivoire

In Côte d'Ivoire, approximately 65% of imported electronics are second-hand, with 60% of these being non-functional. Of these, one-third is repaired, another third is used for spare parts, and the final third enters waste streams.

Informal e-waste sites, like Anoumabo, lack safe disposal methods, leading to hazardous practices, including burning plastics. Local repair systems demonstrate community ingenuity, yet rising complexity in device design hampers repairability.

While European policies promote circular economy practices, they fail to financially support end-of-life management in countries like Côte d'Ivoire, perpetuating environmental risks. Addressing this imbalance is crucial to mitigate health hazards and enhance sustainable practices.