In Nigerian cities, Waste Management is a pressing issue that often goes unnoticed until it becomes impossible to ignore. Rapid urbanisation and population growth have led to increased waste generation, placing immense strain on existing waste management infrastructure. Inadequate refuse collection services, insufficient landfill capacity, and a lack of proper disposal facilities have exacerbated the problem, resulting in widespread environmental pollution, health hazards, and social inequalities. One of the country’s primary challenges in Recycling management is the prevalence of informal refuse disposal practices, such as open dumping and indiscriminate burning, particularly in low-income communities like Bariga in Lagos.
These areas need more access to formal recycling services, leading residents to resort to informal refuse disposal methods. Heaps of garbage can be strewn along streets or piled up in open spaces, as residents often dump their household refuse in vacant lots, drainage channels, or open areas. Burning of refuse, including plastics and other non-biodegradable materials, is a common practice in several low-income communities in the country. This practice releases harmful pollutants into the air, contributing to air Pollution and posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.
Marginalised communities face the worst environmental and health impacts.
Also, these informal refuse disposal practices degrade the local environment and perpetuate social disparities, as marginalised communities bear the brunt of the environmental and health consequences. However, the lack of public awareness and civic responsibility regarding refuse disposal exacerbates the problem, leading to littering and improper refuse segregation. Addressing this challenge requires a strategic approach that involves improving garbage collection services, raising awareness about proper refuse management practices, and providing alternative solutions for refuse disposal, such as community recycling programs or waste-to-energy initiatives.
The country’s cities increasingly turn to innovative solutions to address the recycling system crisis and pave the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future. Integrated recycling systems, like The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) initiative, encompass refuse reduction, recycling, and resource recovery. Promoting garbage segregation at the source reduces the volume of refuse sent to landfills and facilitates recycling, conserving valuable resources and mitigating environmental pollution. Also, community-based refuse management initiatives have effectively empowered residents to take ownership of refuse collection and recycling efforts.
FME aims to improve the recycling system for environmental benefits.
However, the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) have been pivotal in addressing the country’s recycling system challenges. These organisations have implemented regulations and standards to control and manage refuse disposal, promoting sustainable practices like recycling and waste-to-energy technologies. Collaboration with state and local governments and non-governmental organisations enhances recycling system Infrastructure and services nationwide. Public awareness campaigns are raising consciousness about proper refuse disposal, while enforcement of laws holds individuals and businesses accountable for their recycling system practices.
Their concerted efforts are making a tangible impact on the recycling system in the country, striving for a cleaner and healthier environment for the people in the country. By combining regulatory measures with sustainable practices, education, and enforcement, these organisations are actively working towards effective refuse recycling solutions that benefit both the environment and public health. With continued dedication and collaboration, they pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible approach to recycling systems nationwide.
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Lastly, the government can improve the recycling system by implementing stricter regulations and enforcement measures to ensure proper refuse disposal. Investing in infrastructure and Technology for refuse collection and recycling facilities can help to manage and reduce refuse effectively. The government should increase awareness and participation through Education campaigns and Community Engagement to strengthen programs like General Environment Sanitation Day. Collaborating with local authorities, businesses, and non-governmental organisations is also important to promote sustainable practices and create a Culture of environmental responsibility among citizens.