Technological waste produced in Southern Manabí: Environmental impact assessment and human health

Abstract

Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest growing pollution problems in the world, due to the presence of a variety of toxic substances that can contaminate the environment and endanger human health if proper disposal protocols are not followed. The objective of this research was to evaluate the environmental impact of technological waste and the negative effect it has on the health of the citizens of southern Manabí. The methodology used was descriptive-correlative, with deductive-inductive ramifications, and was based on primary sources, articles and research reports. Its development allowed the identification of the strategies and distinctive characteristics of each tool for the management of electronic waste in the province of Manabí. A survey was conducted among the inhabitants of the Jipijapa, Paján and Puerto López cantons to evaluate the management and production of this waste. As a result, it was determined that the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) that most frequently become obsolete in the home are household appliances and electronic devices such as laptops and cell phones. In other words, the dangers caused by electronic waste should not go unnoticed; therefore, the development of an intervention plan that contributes to the preservation of the environment and its surroundings is proposed. This study stems from Information Technology Career research project entitled: Environmental Incidence of technological waste and its impact on the health of the inhabitants of the South Zone of Manabí.