Duration: August 2012 – Dec 2016 (Phase I) 

Nov 2014 –Dec 2015 (Phase II)

The main objectives of the project were to eliminate the burning of plastics and other components of e-waste streams and to enhance the value of metal recovery. GreenAd was contracted to conduct training for informal e-waste workers and an awareness campaign on exposure to heavy metals and associated health risks.

Scope of work:

• Recycler training. This involved the provision of training for members of the Greater Accra Scrap Dealers Association on the use of simple tools to demonstrate the benefits of using machines to strip copper wires over burning them. This step was to change recyclers’ behavior and beliefs, essential for piloting the mechanized unit.
• Awareness-raising campaign. The training involved environmental sanitation, personal hygiene, and on-site waste management practices to reduce the exposure risk of workers. This health campaign was to explain the dangers of lead and exposure pathways and to show recyclers the benefits of using small-scale technologies over burning procedures.
• Construction of a Movable Unit. This included the building and piloting of a movable wire-stripping unit to be created from a shipping container to house various wire-stripping equipment that will work to strip wires from plastic casings. GASDA members have been training on the use of the machines.
• Perimeter Fencing. The containerized structure is arranged to form a three-sided loop, and the front is gated to form a full enclosure. This will prevent unauthorized entry, especially by children.

Funding: Pure Earth, Addax & Oryx Foundation

Partners: Pure Earth, National Youth Authority, EPA, Greater Accra Scrap Dealers Association (GASDA)

Country of Assignment: Agbogbloshie (Old Fadama), Ghana

Project Contribution to SDGs