Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Waste management is a significant challenge in Nigeria, with limited infrastructure and resources for proper disposal and recycling. This research focuses on exploring recycling and reuse as viable alternatives to traditional waste management practices in Nigeria. The study aims to investigate the current state of waste management in the country, assess the potential benefits of recycling and reuse, and propose strategies to enhance these practices. The research methodology includes a comprehensive review of existing literature on waste management, recycling, and reuse in Nigeria, as well as case studies and interviews with stakeholders in the waste management sector. By analyzing the current challenges and opportunities in waste management, the study aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and communities seeking sustainable solutions for waste disposal. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved waste management practices in Nigeria, given the environmental and health risks associated with inadequate disposal methods. Recycling and reuse are identified as effective strategies to reduce waste generation, conserve resources, and minimize environmental impact. The research also emphasizes the economic benefits of recycling, including job creation, revenue generation, and cost savings for businesses and municipalities. The study identifies key barriers to recycling and reuse in Nigeria, such as lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and limited government support. To address these challenges, the research recommends a multi-faceted approach that includes public education campaigns, investment in recycling facilities, and policy incentives to promote sustainable waste management practices. Overall, this research contributes to the growing body of literature on waste management in developing countries, with a specific focus on recycling and reuse as alternative strategies in Nigeria. By highlighting the benefits and challenges of these practices, the study provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to improve waste management systems and promote environmental sustainability in the country. The findings underscore the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to achieve effective waste management solutions and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all Nigerians.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

Cities are at the nexus of a further threat to the environment, namely the production of an increasing quantity and complexity of wastes. The estimated quantity of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) generated worldwide is 1.7 – 1.9 billion metric tons.2 In many cases, municipal wastes are not well managed in developing countries, as cities and municipalities cannot cope with the accelerated pace of waste production. Waste collection rates are often lower than 70 per cent in low-income countries. More than 50 per cent of the collected waste is often disposed of through uncontrolled landfilling and about 15 per cent is processed through unsafe and informal recycling.

Municipal Solid Waste Management 2 As a Mayor, you may have to face challenging waste management decisions addressing issues that require immediate attention as well as potential issues that require strategic and integrated planning and implementation. Establishing and improving facilities for collection, recycling, treatment and disposal for MSW management can be very costly. For example, building and operating sanitary landfills and incineration plants require huge investments and incur substantial operation and maintenance costs. Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find suitable locations for waste treatment facilities due to the prevalence of the Not In My Backyard (NIMBY) attitude amongst communities.

Meanwhile, if waste is growing at 3-5 per cent a year and rural-urban migration increases a city’s population at a similar rate, then a city’s waste generation will double every 10 years.4 Urban managers are therefore encouraged to pursue the paths of Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) and Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3Rs) that place highest priority on waste prevention, waste reduction, and waste recycling instead of just trying to cope with ever-increasing amounts of waste through treatment and disposal. Such efforts will help cities to reduce the financial burden on city authorities for waste management, as well as reduce the pressure on landfill requirements. We live in a world of increasing scarcity. Raw materials from natural resources are limited, financial resources are often insufficient, and securing land for final disposal is getting more difficult.

Clearly, city authorities should set policy directions aiming for resource efficient, recycle-based society if they are to provide a clean, healthy and pleasant living environment to its citizens for current and future generations. Although waste management responsibilities primarily lie with cities and municipalities, many of the successful cases in waste management involve a wide range of stakeholders in their implementation, as can be seen in the case studies cited here. This gives a clear message to cities and municipalities that they should not try to do everything by themselves. Rather, the key to success is to do what they are good at, and collaborate with other sectors in the society, such as private sector, communities and in some cases with the informal sector, in the interest of expanding waste management services and improving efficiency and effectiveness.