Intelligent enterprise: wasting, valuing andre-valuing waste electrical andelectronic equipment

Abstract

The common narrative on e-waste recycling in contemporary Ghana refers to a sector thatis primarily a marginalised, ‘survival entity’ involving excess workers living in poor urbanneighbourhoods. Other narratives highlight the environmental health challenges associated withe-waste recycling management practices. In this paper, we explore how such recycling in Accra,notwithstanding the health and environmental externalities, also involves a vibrant entrepreneurialpart of the urban economy. This case-study-based article was conducted through community assetmapping and 17 key informants’ interviews. The study identified within the e-waste economy anetwork of worlds of work that intersect with both formal and international industries. Based on ourfindings, we propose that when properly nurtured, regularised and managed, e-waste recycling canfoster economic growth and job creation. In conclusion, we highlight three foci that can enrichtheory, practice and research, all three of which are in need of broader understandings. These fociwill also support progress towards achieving a democratic account of everyday life and workcomplexities within the informal economy in Ghana.