Quantification and characterization of discarded batteries in Yaoundé, from the perspective of health, safety and environmental protection

This study highlights the problem of a local mismanagement of portable battery wastes in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Then, these batteries will release hazardous substances such as mercury and cadmium into the local environment. These substances have hazardous properties on the health and environment with regional and even though global impacts beyond the local scale of releasing. Then, to reverse the situation in a developing country such as Cameroon, with most batteries from foreign countries, a better labeling of batteries is needed coupled with the implementation of an import fee system that will support a separate collection of waste batteries and shipped them back to the principal producer countries or companies for reprocessing or safe disposal. The domestic recycling seems to be difficult in this context since the quantity of battery wastes available may not sustain this process.