EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY AND JUDICIAL ENFORCEMENT IN E-WASTE MANAGEMENT: A COMPARATIVE FRAMEWORK FOR NIGERIA'S LEGAL REFORM

Abstract

Nigeria generates approximately 461,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually, ranking among Africa's largest e-waste producers, yet it lacks comprehensive regulatory frameworks for sustainable management.1 This study employs comparative legal analysis to examine Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks and judicial enforcement mechanisms in Japan and India, extracting actionable insights for Nigeria's legal reform. Using doctrinal legal methodology supplemented by policy analysis, the research evaluates two distinct EPR models: Japan's consumer-funded system and India's certificate trading mechanism for informal sector integration. The central thesis argues that effective e-waste governance requires a synergistic combination of robust EPR legislation with proactive judicial enforcement, grounded in the ‘polluter pays’ principle and supported by institutional capacity building.2 Key findings reveal that successful EPR implementation depends on clear producer obligations, adequate financing mechanisms, and judicial willingness to enforce environmental accountability. Japan achieves 95% compliance through administrative efficiency and cultural compliance norms,3 while India's experience demonstrates both the potential and challenges of formalising informal recycling sectors.4 For Nigeria, the study recommends adopting a phased EPR framework that combines Japan's financing model with India's informal sector integration strategies, supported by expanded judicial standing for environmental litigation and specialised environmental courts.