EPA Launches Free E-Waste Collection Programme
2 weeks ago
EPA Launches Free E-Waste Collection Programme in Partnership with Melcom
October 22, 2025
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has unveiled a new electronic waste management initiative aimed at making it easier for Ghanaians to safely dispose of old and unused electronic devices while protecting the environment from hazardous contamination.
The program, launched in partnership with retail giant Melcom, establishes designated drop-off points at selected store locations across Accra where residents can deposit their electronic waste free of charge.
Convenient Drop-Off Locations
Under the initiative, Ghanaians can now bring used electronics including mobile phones, laptops, batteries, cables, and blenders to three participating Melcom branches: Flower Pot (Spintex), North Kaneshie, and Madina.
The strategically located collection points are designed to make e-waste disposal more accessible to residents in various parts of the capital, eliminating the need for improper disposal methods that harm the environment.
Free Pickup Service for Large Appliances
Recognizing that bulky electronic items such as refrigerators and other large appliances can be difficult to transport, the EPA has introduced a complementary free pickup service through the newly launched GH Waste App.
The mobile application, available for download on both the App Store and Google Play, allows users to:
- Register for the service
- Schedule pickups at their convenience
- Track the collection process in real time
- Receive notifications about their e-waste disposal
This digital solution addresses one of the major barriers to proper e-waste disposal by bringing the service directly to citizens' homes at no cost.
Environmental and Health Concerns
In a statement announcing the initiative, the EPA issued a strong warning against mixing electronic waste with regular household refuse, highlighting the serious environmental and health risks associated with improper disposal.
The authority explained that electronic devices contain harmful substances that can contaminate soil, water sources, and air quality if not handled through proper channels. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, as well as other toxic materials found in electronics, pose significant threats to both human health and ecosystems when released into the environment through informal disposal methods.
Supporting National Sustainability Goals
The EPA emphasized that the e-waste collection initiative aligns with Ghana's broader environmental sustainability objectives and represents a critical step toward reducing pollution and promoting safe recycling practices nationwide.
By providing convenient and cost-free disposal options, the authority hopes to encourage active citizen participation in environmental protection while building a culture of responsible waste management.
Growing E-Waste Challenge
Ghana, like many developing countries, faces an increasing challenge with electronic waste as the use of electronic devices continues to expand across all segments of society. The rapid turnover of technology, combined with the importation of used electronics, has created a mounting e-waste problem that requires coordinated action from both government and private sector partners.
Informal e-waste processing, often involving burning or acid baths to extract valuable metals, has become a significant source of environmental pollution and health hazards in some communities. The new EPA-Melcom partnership seeks to provide a safer, more environmentally sound alternative.
Call for Public Participation
The EPA urged all Ghanaians to take advantage of the new service and make responsible e-waste disposal a priority. The authority called on citizens to check their homes for old, unused electronic items and bring them to the designated collection points or schedule pickups through the app.
The initiative represents a significant expansion of Ghana's e-waste management infrastructure and demonstrates the potential for public-private partnerships to address pressing environmental challenges.
Citizens interested in using the service can visit any of the three participating Melcom locations during regular business hours or download the GH Waste App to schedule a free pickup for larger items.
