It's Not All Waste: The Complicated Life of Surplus Electronics In Africa

retroworks writes "Today's Science Daily reports on 5 new UN studies of used computer and electronics management in Africa. The studies find that about 85% of surplus electronics imports are reused, not discarded. Most of the goods pictured in 'primitive e-waste' articles were domestically generated and have been in use, or reused, for years. Africa's technology lifecycle for displays is 2-3 times the productive use cycle in OECD nations. Still, EU bans the trade of used technology to Africa, Interpol has describes 'most' African computer importers as 'criminals,' and U.S. bill HR2284 would do the same. Can Africa 'leapfrog' to newer and better tech? Or are geeks and fixers the appropriate technology for 83% of the world (non-OECD's population)? "

Comments

Re:African solutions to African problems

[Bing Tsher E]

So are you the local Dell sales rep in one of these countries 'halfway around the world'?

Re:Please do visit Africa sometime

[misexistentialist]

It's not like they had bright futures until they were pulled out of med school to become e-waste slaves.