Into the world of e-waste: mobility among e-scrappers in Nigeria

Abstract

In the management of e-waste, mobility of e-scrappers plays a pivotal role, especially in e-waste acquisition and sales of extracted materials. This research examines the relationship between e-scrappers and the locations of their work by analysing the influence of environmental and social factors on their mobility behaviour in Nigeria. A qualitative analysis of video material collected from 29 male e-scrappers in Nigeria between 2014 and 2015 reveals that e-waste has inherent properties that intermittently mobilise e-scrappers to search for recyclable and valuable electronic trash. Applying the new mobilities paradigm and the new materialism theory, we present that e-scrappers’ mobility occurs within an interdependent network of connections. An assemblage of things consisting of workspace, social network, poor infrastructure, and weather conditions both produce and interrupt mobility among e-scrappers. As vibrant material, e-waste is capable of eliciting reactions from both organic and inorganic organisms. We conclude by arguing that the mobility of e-scrappers strongly determines the quality of extracts and the channel by which valuable extracts are sold. Therefore, mobility is one of the keys elements of successful e-waste management in Nigeria, providing economic stability and social recognition for e-scrappers.

Keywords:

• E-waste
• applied mobility
• new-materialism
• assemblage of things
• electronic waste management
• informal recyclers

Notes

1. At the time of writing, 80,000 naira = 228 €.

2. An apprenticeship is a system that provides on-the-job training for individuals. It involves employer-apprentices relationships. The apprentice learns for an agreed period of time (Omokaro Ideho 2016).