Nigeria is not an exception to the global ecological crisis of plastic pollution, which is affecting waterways. The country’s extensive network of rivers, streams, and coastal areas presents serious issues because of the introduction of plastic litter into these bodies of water. This Pollution is a serious problem that needs immediate response because of its extensive effects on the economy, the environment, and public health. The country’s vast coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and its waterways, which include important rivers like the Niger and Benue, are vital to the nation’s ecosystem and economy.
These Waterways act as vital transit channels, sustain various habitats, and supply water for Agriculture and drinking. However, these essential roles are in danger of being compromised by the expanding issue of waste contamination. There are many different and complicated sources of waste contamination in the country’s rivers. One of the leading causes is the incorrect way homes and companies dispose of their plastic garbage. The lack of proper waste disposal Infrastructure in many urban and rural regions causes waste litter in streets and public areas.
Sufficient recycling facilities are needed to address waste problems.
This trash eventually finds its way into larger bodies of water after being flushed into rivers and drainage systems by rains. The need for more Recycling facilities and a low public understanding of safe garbage disposal practices further worsens the issue. It is also primarily caused by industrial activity. Manufacturing operations frequently produce trash, and insufficient Waste Management procedures in industrial zones lead to its release into adjacent rivers and streams. In addition, the fishing sector adds to the pollution in the ecosystem by discarded fishing nets, lines, and other equipment that can capture marine animals and linger in the environment for many years.
Also, Plastic Pollution significantly negatively affects the nation’s rivers. One notable outcome is the build-up of Plastic Waste near shorelines and riverbanks. This endangers wildlife in these locations and tarnishes their natural beauty. Fish, turtles, and birds are examples of aquatic creatures that frequently confuse waste objects for food. Ingestion can cause internal damage, malnutrition, and even death. Moreover, entanglements caused by plastic waste may block the movement of animals and result in drowning or oxygen deprivation.
Waste lowers water quality, impacting wildlife and human health.
In addition to the direct harm it does to wildlife, waste pollution impacts water quality. It releases toxic compounds into the water when they degrade into smaller particles, known as microplastics. When contaminated seafood is consumed, aquatic species eventually absorb the Microplastics and make their way up the food chain, impacting human health. According to studies, microplastics can lead to many health issues, including toxicity, inflammation, and endocrine system disturbance. Waste pollution in water harms the fishing industry, reduces fish populations, affects catch quality, and deters tourists in coastal areas.
A diverse strategy is needed to address the waste pollution problem in the country’s waterways. Enhancing the infrastructure for waste management is one crucial tactic. This involves creating recycling facilities in addition to more effective garbage collection and disposal methods. Enforcing government laws and regulations is necessary to ensure that industries correctly handle trash and minimise emissions. Likewise, behaviour change can be supported by educating the public about waste pollution’s adverse effects on the environment and human health and by supporting actions like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.
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Lastly, campaigns and activities aimed at cleaning up the community might inspire residents to take up the cause of keeping their surroundings clean. Moreover, research and Innovation are essential in the fight against waste pollution. The environmental impact can be significantly decreased by creating biodegradable substitutes for traditional waste and advancing recycling and waste management methods for waste. Cooperation between governmental, non-governmental, and business sectors is crucial to promote these discoveries and implement sustainable solutions.