According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), waste with no economic value is often dumped or burned which releases pollutants including heavy metals and toxic chemicals, like dioxins, furans and flame retardants, into the air, water and soil. Over 52,000 tonnes of brominated (flame retardant) plastics, 4,000 tonnes of lead, 80 tonnes of cadmium and 0.3 tonnes of mercury are burned or dumped in Nigeria every year. In Nigeria, up to 100,000 people work in the informal electronic waste sector, processing half a million tonnes of discarded appliances every year. These workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals which causes, among others, respiratory and dermatological problems, eye infections and lower than average life expectancy. 

Safe e-waste recycling is important and has enormous economic potential, with 100 times more gold in a tonne of e-waste than in a tonne of gold ore. Therefore, The Government of Nigeria has joined forces with UN Environment and partners to turn the tide on e-waste and have announced a US$15 million initiative to kick off a circular electronics system in Nigeria. The project also aims to have an impact beyond Nigeria through the development of a practical circular electronics model for Africa and beyond, by sharing best practices, promoting regional and global dialogue, and engaging global manufacturers.

The main objective of the project is to support the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility legislation in Nigeria, working with the private sector to develop cost-effective value retention businesses, including recycling and disposal systems for electronic products, while ensuring that informal workers in the sector have opportunities to improve their livelihoods, working conditions, and their health and safety.