Ep 9. Ghana - Digital Dumping

What in the World season 1 episode 9 explores the issue of electronic waste in Ghana, which has become a dumping ground for the world's discarded electronics. The episode delves into the environmental and health hazards caused by the disposal of electronic waste in Ghana, highlighting the impact of this toxic waste on the land, water, and air. The episode also sheds light on the social and economic implications of electronic waste dumping in Ghana.

The episode begins by introducing the concept of "e-waste," which refers to the disposal of electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers, and televisions. The show explains that electronic devices contain harmful compounds such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, which can have devastating effects on human health and the environment. The episode shares the facts about the hazardous nature of electronic waste and the need for responsible disposal of e-waste to protect the planet.

The show then takes viewers to Agbogbloshie, a suburb of Ghana's capital city, Accra, where electronic waste from all over the world comes to die. The episode delves into the sprawling electronic waste dumpsite and the lives of the people who work there. The camera follows the stories of the children, teenagers, and adults who sift through the mountains of electronic waste, looking for salvageable parts to sell. The episode highlights the human cost of electronic waste dumping, including the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.

The episode then explores the environmental impact of electronic waste dumping in Ghana. The show visits the villages that surround the dumpsite and interviews the locals about the effects of electronic waste on their health and livelihoods. The episode exposes the extent of the damage caused by toxic electronic waste on the land, soil, water sources, and air quality. The show also showcases the innovative ways that some Ghanaians are fighting back against electronic waste dumping, including campaigns to raise awareness and efforts to promote responsible e-waste management.

Moreover, the episode explores the economic implications of electronic waste dumping in Ghana. The show interviews the young entrepreneurs who make a living from collecting and selling electronic waste. The episode showcases their innovative strategies and highlights the opportunities for sustainable e-waste management that could boost economic growth, create jobs, and mitigate the environmental damage caused by electronic waste dumping.

The show also profiles the global efforts to tackle the issue of electronic waste. It highlights the international conventions and policies that aim to reduce e-waste production, promote responsible e-waste disposal, and hold e-waste exporting countries accountable. The episode showcases the role of the private sector and the technology industry in promoting sustainable e-waste management, highlighting the examples of companies that are taking action to recycle and reuse electronics.

Overall, What in the World season 1 episode 9 is a sobering exploration of the consequences of electronic waste dumping in Ghana. The episode provides a nuanced and informative look at the human, environmental, and economic impact of e-waste on Ghana and the rest of the world. The episode raises important questions about our collective responsibility to reduce, reuse, and recycle e-waste and highlights the innovative solutions and opportunities that could emerge from responsible e-waste management.