Solid Waste Segregation as a Strategy for Improved Waste Management

1.1 Introduction

Solid waste refers to any discarded material that arises from human and animal activities and is normally discarded as useless or unwanted. Segregation of solid waste, on the other hand, is defined as the systematic separation of different categories of waste such as biodegradable, recyclable, hazardous, and non-recyclable at the point of generation in order to facilitate effective waste management (Zurbrugg, 2003). According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2018), effective management of solid waste involves activities such as collection, segregation, transportation, treatment, recycling, and disposal to minimize adverse impacts on human health and the environment. However, one of the persistent challenges of waste management in developing countries like Nigeria is the indiscriminate disposal and poor handling of waste, which leads to blocked drainage, flooding, pollution, and outbreaks of communicable diseases (Adewumi, 2012).

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

Solid waste generation has become one of the most pressing environmental issues globally due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and population growth. According to Tchobanoglous, Theisen, and Vigil (1993), solid waste refers to non-liquid, non-gaseous materials that are discarded as unwanted, ranging from household refuse to industrial by-products. The World Bank (2012) reported that global municipal solid waste generation is projected to reach 2.2 billion tonnes annually by 2025, with developing countries contributing significantly due to inadequate management systems. This rapid increase in waste generation places enormous strain on urban infrastructure, especially in countries with weak regulatory frameworks.

Waste segregation is widely recognized as a crucial strategy for addressing the challenges of waste management. Zurbrugg (2003) asserted that segregation at the point of generation ensures that biodegradable, recyclable, and hazardous wastes are separated, thereby facilitating effective recycling, composting, and safe disposal. Guerrero, Maas, and Hogland (2013) stated that the absence of segregation not only complicates waste treatment but also results in environmental degradation and increased health risks. Furthermore, Olanrewaju and Ilemobade (2009) affirmed that integrating waste segregation into municipal waste systems promotes efficiency, reduces costs, and contributes to sustainable development.

In the Nigerian context, the problem of solid waste management has been described as both an environmental and governance crisis. Ogwueleka (2009) reported that Nigerian cities generate millions of tonnes of waste annually, yet less than half of it is collected, while most of the collected waste is poorly disposed of in open dumps without segregation. Adewumi (2012) contended that the major challenges include lack of awareness, poor waste handling culture, insufficient infrastructure, and weak enforcement of waste management policies.

Scholars have also emphasized the economic potential of waste segregation. Wilson, Velis, and Cheeseman (2006) asserted that properly segregated waste streams enhance opportunities for resource recovery, recycling, and energy production, which in turn generate employment and income. On the other hand, failure to segregate waste contributes to the loss of valuable resources and increases the burden on landfill facilities. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2016) stated that effective waste segregation aligns with global sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption.

Therefore, solid waste segregation is not only an environmental necessity but also a developmental strategy. It plays a vital role in promoting cleaner cities, safeguarding public health, and stimulating economic opportunities through recycling and green jobs. In Nigeria, where the waste crisis is acute, the adoption of segregation strategies could provide a pathway to improved waste management, urban sustainability, and socio-economic benefits. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges and opportunities, with the aim of examining solid waste segregation as a strategy for improved waste management in Nigeria.

1.3 Statement of Problems

Investigation revealed that solid waste management is a major concern in many urban areas of Nigeria due to rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrialization. Improper disposal of waste is a source of environmental pollution, including soil, air, and water contamination, which poses serious health risks to communities (Ogwueleka, 2009). Many households and businesses are yet to adopt proper waste segregation practices, resulting in mixed waste streams that are difficult to manage and recycle (Guerrero, Maas, & Hogland, 2013).

On the other hand, existing waste management systems are often limited by inadequate infrastructure, insufficient government support, low community participation, and poor enforcement of regulations. The inefficiency of municipal collection services, combined with financial constraints and lack of awareness, is a major challenge to sustainable waste management (Hoornweg & Bhada-Tata, 2012).

Furthermore, many communities do not have access to segregated bins or recycling facilities, and improper practices such as burning of waste continue, contributing to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions (Ali, 2010). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate solid waste segregation as a strategy for improving waste management, identify the challenges that hinder its implementation, examine the perceived environmental, social, and economic benefits, and propose strategies to enhance public participation and sustainability in the management of solid waste.

1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness of solid waste segregation as a strategy for improved waste management in Nigeria.

The specific objectives of the study are to:

1. Assess the current practices of solid waste management in the study area.
2. Examine the challenges hindering the implementation of waste segregation.
3. Evaluate the environmental, social, and economic benefits of waste segregation.
4. Identify strategies for promoting public participation in waste segregation.
5. Provide recommendations for strengthening waste segregation policies and practices.

1.5 Research Questions

Based on the stated objectives, the study will address the following research questions:

• What are the current practices of solid waste management in the study area?
• What are the major challenges hindering the implementation of waste segregation?
• What are the environmental, social, and economic benefits of waste segregation?
• How can public participation in waste segregation be improved?
• What strategies and policies can be recommended to strengthen waste segregation practices in Nigeria?

1.6 Significance of the Study

It is believed that at the completion of the research study, the findings will contribute to environmental protection by showing how segregation will reduce pollution and enhance recycling. In addition, waste management companies will benefit as segregation will improve operational efficiency and reduce costs associated with mixed waste collection.

Furthermore, the study will promote sustainable urban development by demonstrating how segregation will improve sanitation, reduce health risks, and support cleaner cities.

Lastly, academia and researchers will benefit as the study will serve as a reference material for further studies on waste management and environmental sustainability.

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: Solid waste segregation does not significantly improve the efficiency of waste management in the study area.
• H₀2: Waste segregation contributes significantly to environmental sustainability and economic development.
• H₀3: Public participation plays a crucial role in the success of waste segregation initiatives.

1.8 Scope of the Study

This study will focus on Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) as a case study. The scope will cover waste segregation practices, challenges, and opportunities for improved management within Lagos State.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Lack of Cooperation: Many of the respondents are usually aggressive on issue that border cooperation among the respondents border.
4. 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

Solid Waste:

Solid waste refers to discarded, non-liquid materials arising from domestic, industrial, commercial, and agricultural activities that are considered no longer useful (Tchobanoglous et al., 1993).

Waste Segregation:

Waste segregation is the process of separating waste into different categories such as biodegradable, recyclable, hazardous, and non-recyclable at the point of generation to ensure efficient waste management (Zurbrugg, 2003).

Waste Management:

Waste management is the collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of waste materials in a way that minimizes harm to human health and the environment (WHO, 2018).

Recycling:

Recycling refers to the process of converting waste materials into new products to prevent waste of useful resources, reduce landfill use, and lower environmental pollution (Wilson et al., 2006).