DUMPSITE OF THE WEST.
The “Home Use” phenomenon.
A friend of mine in Australia called me a week ago and
in the course of our conversation, told me about the Government replacing their
old traditional hatchback televisions with new LCD flat screen televisions. According
to him, the new televisions are Eco friendly because they emit less radiation
and consume less power thus saving energy. “So what happens to your old
televisions” I asked. “They’ll be sent to Africa I guess”, he answered with
laughter.
Even though my friend was joking, he was not far
from the truth. Everyday hundreds of used electrical appliances arrive in large
containers at our various ports. Yes, Africa has become a dumping ground for
the west. Old household items and
appliances which are deemed as damaged or unfit for the environment are sent to
Africa. Most of these electrical items do not meet the new Eco standard. They
consume lots of energy and thus bad for the environment but ironically we
embrace them here out of ignorance. In Ghana, it is not uncommon to see large
crowds gathered around “home use” goods as we call it.
The reason why most Ghanaians patronize these “home
used” goods is because they are often seen as quality and original. This is
because they are coming directly from America or Europe, and not from China,
that has a reputation for inferior goods.
Another reason why used goods are popular is because
they are relatively cheaper to brand new ones. This gives the normal person an opportunity
to own original brands at a less cost. Used goods also give the everyday
Ghanaian an opportunity to own appliances which under normal circumstances they
won’t be interested in owning, such as microwaves, toasters, vacuums cleaners and
the likes.
In spite of the advantages these “home use” goods
have, there are consequences. One is the impact on our environment. Most of
these goods are usually old and thus do not meet the new Eco standard. This
means they are not environmentally friendly. They use more energy and emit more
radiation which in the long run contributes to global warming.
They are also some health risks involved. This is
because used household items such as mattresses, bed sheets and furniture might
harbor viruses and harmful bacteria that can cause diseases such as hepatitis B
and the likes.
The Government of Ghana and other organizations in
charge such as the Ghana Standards Board, Ports and Harbors Authority, Energy
commission should put measures in place to ensure that Ghana does not continue
to become the dumping ground for West.
