1.1 Introduction
Plastic waste is defined as discarded or unwanted plastic materials that are no longer useful to the owner and are often improperly disposed of into the environment (UNEP, 2020). Plastics, being synthetic polymers derived primarily from petrochemical sources, have become an integral part of modern life due to their versatility, durability, and low production cost. However, their non-biodegradable nature means that once discarded, they persist in the environment for hundreds of years, leading to widespread pollution and environmental degradation (Hopewell, Dvorak, & Kosior, 2009).
Environmental degradation refers to the deterioration of the natural environment through the depletion of resources such as air, water, and soil, and the destruction of ecosystems caused by human activities (Okafor & Onyekachi, 2020). The accumulation of plastic waste contributes significantly to this process by obstructing drainage systems, contaminating soil and water sources, and releasing harmful chemicals into the environment. In urban areas like Lagos, where population density and commercial activities are high, plastic pollution has become an unavoidable challenge.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of the Study
Plastic waste has become one of the most pervasive pollutants in the modern world, posing severe threats to environmental sustainability, public health, and socioeconomic stability. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2020), over 300 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually across the globe, with a significant proportion ending up in landfills, waterways, and oceans. The problem is particularly acute in developing nations where waste management systems are often inadequate to cope with the growing volume of plastic waste. Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve center, exemplifies this challenge due to its dense population, rapid urbanization, and booming commercial activities.
Adediran and Nwafor (2021) asserted that the growing dependence on plastic materials in Nigerian markets is a direct consequence of their affordability, versatility, and convenience. However, they also noted that this convenience has come at a high environmental cost, as the majority of plastic waste generated is improperly disposed of. In Lagos Island markets, plastic bottles, nylon bags, sachet water wrappers, and disposable containers are commonly discarded in open spaces and drainage channels. These materials eventually clog the city’s drainage systems, causing recurrent flooding during the rainy season and aggravating environmental degradation.
Adeoye and Ojo (2021) reported that Lagos State generates thousands of tonnes of solid waste daily, of which plastic waste constitutes a significant portion. They stated that the weak enforcement of environmental laws and the absence of effective recycling mechanisms have made it difficult to control the proliferation of plastic waste. The improper disposal of plastic products not only degrades the physical environment but also leads to pollution of water bodies and soil contamination, affecting agriculture, aquatic life, and public health.
Similarly, Ogunbode and Akintola (2022) contended that the burning of plastic waste, a common practice in Lagos markets, releases harmful gases such as dioxins and furans into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute to air pollution and increase the risk of respiratory diseases among residents and traders. The practice is widespread due to a lack of waste collection systems and public awareness of the health implications of open burning. On the other hand, Olanrewaju and Ilemobade (2020) affirmed that poor drainage maintenance and plastic waste accumulation are major contributors to frequent flooding incidents in Lagos Island. They emphasized that the resulting floods cause property damage, disrupt commercial activities, and exacerbate the spread of communicable diseases.
Nwachukwu, Ume, and Nnaji (2020) asserted that the socioeconomic impact of plastic waste in urban markets extends beyond environmental degradation. They noted that waste accumulation reduces market sanitation, discourages tourism, and imposes extra costs on traders who must constantly clean their surroundings. The long-term effects also include declining environmental quality and reduced economic productivity due to the adverse health impacts of pollution. According to Okafor and Onyekachi (2020), this situation is worsened by inadequate public sensitization on proper waste disposal practices and the limited availability of eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging.
Globally, Hopewell, Dvorak, and Kosior (2009) reported that while recycling offers a potential solution, the process remains underdeveloped in many developing countries, including Nigeria, due to high costs, insufficient infrastructure, and weak institutional frameworks. Consequently, the majority of plastic waste continues to accumulate in the environment, where it fragments into microplastics that contaminate soil and water sources. This global challenge mirrors the situation in Lagos Island, where markets have become hotspots for plastic pollution, threatening both human and environmental health. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges, focusing on the effects of plastic waste on environmental degradation in Lagos Island markets.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Plastic waste is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing urban centers in developing nations, and Lagos Island is no exception. The indiscriminate disposal of plastic materials in markets and surrounding environments is contributing significantly to environmental degradation. In Lagos Island markets, plastics such as bottles, nylon bags, and packaging materials are extensively used for daily commercial activities. However, due to poor waste management systems, inadequate recycling facilities, and low public awareness, most of these plastics end up clogging drainage systems, littering streets, and polluting water bodies (Adediran & Nwafor, 2021).
Furthermore, the accumulation of plastic waste is affecting soil fertility, aquatic life, and air quality in Lagos Island. When plastics are burnt, they release toxic gases into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and respiratory illnesses among market traders and residents (Ogunbode & Akintola, 2022).
Additionally, the increasing dependence on single-use plastics is worsening the waste management crisis. Market users continue to rely heavily on plastic materials for convenience and affordability, without fully understanding the long-term environmental costs (Adeoye & Ojo, 2021). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the effects of plastic waste on environmental degradation in Lagos Island markets.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The main aim of this study is to assess the effects of plastic waste on environmental degradation in Lagos Island markets.
The specific objectives of this research are to:
- Examine the environmental impacts of plastic waste on drainage systems, water bodies, and public health.
- Determine the level of awareness and attitudes of market users toward proper plastic waste disposal.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the existing waste management system in controlling plastic pollution.
- Identify the major sources and types of plastic waste generated in Lagos Island markets.
- Suggest practical recommendations for sustainable plastic waste management and environmental protection in Lagos Island.
1.5 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the study will address the following research questions:
- What are the major sources and types of plastic waste generated in Lagos Island markets?
- How does plastic waste contribute to environmental degradation, particularly in terms of drainage blockage, flooding, and pollution?
- How effective is the existing waste management system in managing plastic waste in Lagos Island markets?
- What is the level of awareness among traders and residents regarding the environmental effects of plastic waste?
- What sustainable strategies can be implemented to improve plastic waste management in Lagos Island markets?
1.6 Significance of the Study
The outcome of this research will provide data that will help design and monitor programs aimed at reducing plastic waste and improving waste disposal infrastructure. The study will also serve as an eye-opener for market users by increasing their awareness of the health and environmental consequences of improper plastic disposal.
Furthermore, it will provide useful data for environmental researchers, organizations, and government agencies seeking to address plastic pollution in Nigeria’s urban centers. In addition, the findings will help in designing community-based campaigns and sustainability projects focused on waste reduction and recycling.
Lastly, this study will add to existing literature and will serve as a foundation for further research on waste management and environmental sustainability in urban Nigeria.
1.7 Research Hypotheses
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H01: Plastic waste has no significant effect on environmental degradation in Lagos Island markets.
- H02: Public awareness and proper waste management practices have a significant relationship with the reduction of plastic pollution in Lagos Island markets.
1.8 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research is focused on the effects of plastic waste on environmental degradation. The scope of this study will be limited to Lagos State, focusing specifically on selected markets within Lagos Island such as Idumota, Balogun, and Ebute Ero.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
A study of this nature is bound to experience certain problems as such the constraints imposed on the research include:
- Time Constraints: A study of this nature needs relatively long time during which information for accurate or at least near accurate inference could be drawn. The period of the study was short, time posed as constraints to the research.
- Financial Constraints: The research would have extended the survey to other area at the empirical level, but limitation as included cost of transportation to the source of material and the cost of time setting of the already completed work.
- Lack of Cooperation: Many of the respondents are usually aggressive on issue that border cooperation among the respondents border.
- Response Bias: The study will involve surveys and interviews with cooperative managers and members. Response bias may occur if respondents provide socially desirable answers or if there is reluctance to disclose negative financial information due to privacy concerns or fear of repercussions.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Plastic Waste:
Plastic waste refers to discarded plastic materials that are no longer useful or have been improperly disposed of, leading to environmental pollution (UNEP, 2020).
Environmental Degradation:
Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the natural environment through pollution, depletion of resources, and disruption of ecological balance caused by human activities (Okafor & Onyekachi, 2020).
Waste Management:
Waste management is the process of collecting, treating, and disposing of waste materials in a manner that minimizes environmental and health hazards (Adediran & Nwafor, 2021).
Recycling:
Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new products to prevent the waste of potentially useful materials and reduce environmental pollution (Hopewell, Dvorak, & Kosior, 2009).
Sustainability:
Sustainability refers to practices that meet current environmental, economic, and social needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Adeoye & Ojo, 2021).
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