The informal paradox: electronic waste and the toxic circular economy in Ghana

Decarbonization and the circular economy are heralded as sustainable pathways to address climate change, but their consequences in the Global South are often overlooked. Countries like Ghana face significant environmental and health challenges because of the green transition. In Accra’s informal settlements, electronic waste recycling offers economic opportunities but exacerbates pollution and public health risks. This study examines Agbogbloshie, an informal settlement in Accra, Ghana, that is home to one of the world’s largest electronic waste sites, to explore the informal paradox between economic opportunity and toxic exposure in the Global South. Using geospatial analysis of the population and time-series PM₂.₅ data (2000–2020) in conjunction with 55 stakeholder interviews, we show that while electronic waste recycling provides much-needed livelihoods, it does so at the expense of the health and well-being of workers and residents alike. These dynamics reflect complex trends linking informality to global supply chains and circular economies.