TABLE OF CONTENT

CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTION

 1.1. Types of solid waste

 1.2. Sources of solid waste

 1.3. Solid waste categorization

 1.4. Objectives of solid waste management

CHAPTER II. METHODS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

 2.1. Landfills
 2.2. Compositing
 2.3. Incineration
 2.4. Recycling

CHAPTER III. LEGISLATION ON SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

 3.1. Environmental Management and Protection act (EMPA) of 1999

 3.2. Other legislations on solid waste management in Nigeria

CHAPTER IV. BENEFITS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

 4.1. Environmental protection Lack of funding

 4.2. Public health

 4.3. Resource conservation

 4.4. Economic benefits

 4.5. Aesthetics

CHAPTER V. EFFECTS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

 5.1. Environmental Pollution

 5.2. Public Health Risks

 5.3. Economic Costs

[1]
CHAPTER VI. CHALLENGES FACING SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

 6.1. Insufficient infrastructure

 6.2. Limited government resources

 6.3. Lack of public education and awareness

 6.4. Lack of formal waste collection systems

 6.5. Poor enforcement of existing laws and regulations

CHAPTER VII: CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

[2]
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0. Introduction

The environment is very crucial for the existence of every creature. In addition
to serving as a place of abode to any creature, it also contributes to a large
extent, to the quality of life of creatures (Oreyomi, 2005). The environment can
be seen as the total factors that surround and influence and organism at a
given time and place.

Solid waste are abandoned materials which could be garbage, sludge from a
waste-treatment plant, discarded materials resulting from industrial
commercial, mining, agricultural operations and those resulting from
community activities such as waste tires, scrap metal, latex paints, furniture
toys appliances and vehicles (parts), empty aerosol cans, paint cans and
compressed gas cylinders, construction and demolition debris (Bamgbose et al.
2000). However, most of the waste commonly known as garbage, which
consists of everyday items being discarded by the public is generally regarded
as municipal solid waste. It covers all thrown-away materials including
products of packaging, grass clippings, furniture, clothing, bottles, food scrap,
newspapers, appliances and batteries (Afon, and Bassey, 2006). The quantity
and rate of solid waste generation in a place is largely dependent on the
population, level of industrialization, socio-economic status and the kinds of
commercial activities (Dauda and Osita, 2002).

It has been recorded that Nigeria generates over 32 million tons of solid waste
yearly, and only a fraction is collected (Bakare, 2016). Most of these waste are
generated by households and in some cases, by local industries, artisans and
traders who litter the immediate surroundings. Improper collection and
disposal of municipal wastes has led to different levels of environmental
challenge such as blockage of sewers, drain networks and the choking of water
bodies (George & Chukwu, 2010). Although, the country lacks a well-
coordinated waste management system.

[3]
1.1. Types of solid waste

Solid waste can be categorised as refuse, garbage, rubbish, ash clinkers etc. We
will describe them further below. However, in most situations the words can
be used interchangeably.

1.1.1. Refuse

Refuse derived from its original connotation means rejects and in this context
refers to the solid waste component that can easily be burnt or decomposed. It
is the combustible and putrescible component of solid waste emanating from
human domestic activities especially from the kitchen, homes etc. In other
words, all non-hazardous solid waste from a community that requires
collection and transport to a processing or disposal site is called refuse (or
municipal solid waste). Examples include paper scraps, husks, drypoets, dry
leaves, paper raps and small cartons etc. Refuse is made up of the garbage and
rubbish.

1:1:2 Garbage

Garbage is mostly decomposable food wastes which are highly putrescible. The
putrescible solid wastes generate humus and thus enrich the soil and some can
be sorted and used as hog feed. However, on serious accumulation, it attracts
and breeds flies and other insects. They also provide food for rats and other
vermin and their fermentation results in the production of unpleasant odour.

1:1:3 Ash/Others

Ashes are products of combustion of materials. It may include wastes from

utilization of wood energy in household and small industrial concerns and also
by products of controlled burning and incineration of wastes. A related waste
form is cinder or charcoal which in itself is a useful fuel.

1.2 Sources of Solid Waste

We have earlier noted that wastes emanate out of human activities in the
environment. It therefore follows to reason that the source of solid waste will
depend on the location and type of human activity being carried out. Thus, we
have domestic or house hold sources, agricultural activities, industrial

[4]
processes, clinical activities/research and commercial/trading activities sources
of solid waste include the following:

1.2.1 Domestic Sources

Human activities in the homes generates wastes of varied characteristics

ranging from rejects arising from food preparations to left over foods, rapping
materials of purchased items and disused household furniture and materials.
The bulk of wastes of domestic origin are either putrescible or combustible.
They are mainly biodegradable on nature.

1.2.2 Agricultural Sources

Agricultural activities contribute to the major waste stream of a community.

Agricultural wastes are mainly biodegradable refuse (garbage) emanating from
the growth and processing of farm products. It may also include a minor
disused materials, implements and machinery.

1.2.3 Industrial Sources

Industrial processes also generate a great proportion of solid wastes may vary
dependent on the type of industry but commonly it may consist of rejected
packaging materials, disused materials, equipment and machinery and also
substandard of products of such industries. Some fraction of industrial solid
wastes may be hazardous in nature which again depends on the type of
industry. For instance, electronic manufacturing or assembling industry will
generate hazardous wastes as opposed to food processing industry and
schools as educational industry.

1.2.4 Clinical Activities/Research

Clinical activities in hospitals and research institutions generate solid wastes.

Apart from the packaging materials of products and other garbage, hospital
solid wastes may contain anatomical wastes, disused drug and vaccine vials
contaminated needles and syringes etc.

1.2.5 Commercial Activities

Commercial or trading activities generate plenty of wastes which are mainly

similar to domestic waste in characteristics and composition; they are mainly

[5]
composed of disused rapping materials, waste food products and other
rejected articles of trade. The nature and composition of market wastes vary
according to location and level of development rural markets generates p to
80% organic waste (crude estimate) compared to cities and urban areas where
sophisticated materials including chemicals and electronic wastes may form
part of the bulk waste.

Solid waste management remains of the most daunting environmental

sanitation challenges facing the country today and it has continually remained
at its lowest ebb despite huge investments in the sector currently, as a result
of industrialisation and rapid population growth in many cities and towns,
wastes are generated faster than they are collected, transported and disposed.

Solid waste management is the collection, transport, processing or disposal,

managing and monitoring of solid waste materials. The term usually relates to
materials produced by human activity and the process is generally undertaken
to reduce their effect on health, the environment or aesthetics. Management
of solid waste reduces or eliminates adverse impacts on the environment and
human health, supports economic development and improve quality of life.
Solid waste management is a distinct practice from resource recovery which
focuses on delaying the rate of consumption of natural resources. (Imam et al,
2008)

1.3. Solid Waste Categorization

Correct classification is the foundation for ensuring that the segregation,

collection, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of waste is carried
out in a manner that provides protection for the environment and human
health and in compliance with legal requirements. Solid waste categorization is
a system of classification of solid waste according to predefined criteria. For
the purpose of this solid waste management policy document, waste shall be
classified according to the following:

i. Household wastes
ii. Industrial wastes
iii. Electronic waste (e-waste)
iv. Special bulk wastes
v. Agricultural wastes
[6]
vi. Marine litters
vii. Medical wastes

1.3.1. Household Waste

Solid waste comprising of garbage and rubbish (such as bottles, cans, clothing,
compost, disposables, food packaging, food scraps, newspapers and
magazines, and yard trimmings etc) that originates from residential
environments (private homes, apartments or high density housing).

1.3.2. Industrial Wastes

Waste produced by industrial activity which includes any material that is

rendered useless during a manufacturing process such as that of factories,
industries, mills and mining operations.

1.3.3. Electronic Waste

Electronic waste are discarded electrical and electronic devices and

components as well as substances involved in their manufacture or use which
are destined for reuse, resale, salvage, recycling or disposal.

1.3.4. Special Bulk Waste

Special bulk wastes are wastes that are too large to be accepted by the regular
waste collection. Bulk waste items include discarded furniture (couches,
recliners, tables etc), large appliances (refrigerators, ovens, televisions etc) and
plumbing fixture (bathtubs, toilets, sinks etc). Branches, brush logs and other
green waste are also categorized as bulk wastes.

1.3.5. Agricultural Waste

Agricultural wastes refers to wastes produced from various agricultural

operations including waste from farms, poultry houses and slaughter houses,
harvest waste, fertilizer run off from fields, pesticides that enter water, air or
soils, salt and silt drained from fields.

1.3.6. Marine Litter

Marine litter (sometimes called marine debris) are any persistent

manufactured or processed solid material which is discarded, disposed off or

[7]
abandoned in the marine and coastal environment. Marine litter consist of
mostly very slowly degradable waste items such as plastic, polystyrene, metals
and glass (Onwurah et al, 2006). Waste under this category in this policy
include wastes disposed in territorial waters emanating from both inland
activities and marine activities such as visiting vessels and marines.

1.3.8. Medical Waste (Hospital Waste)

Hospital waste is generated during the diagnosis, treatment or immunization

of human beings or animals or in research activities in these fields or in the
production or testing of biological. It may include wastes like sharps,
disposables, anatomical waste, cultures, discarded medicines, chemical wastes
etc. These are in form of disposable syringes, swabs, bandages etc.

This waste is highly infectious and can be a serious threat to human health of
not managed in a scientific and discriminate manner. It has been roughly
estimated that of the 4kg of waste generated in a hospital at least 1kg would
be infected.

1.4 Objectives of Solid Waste Management

The underlying objectives of any waste management programmes will

include:

1. To protect human health and improve quality of life among people living in
the area.
2. To reduce environment pollution and make the area clean.
3. To convert bio waste into energy for ensuring greater energy security at the
community level.
4. To protect recycling and reuse of both solid waste.
5. To generate employment for the poor by offering new opportunities in
waste management by adopting cost effective and environmentally sound
solid waste treatment technologies.

1.5 Integrated Solid Waste Management

Integrated waste management (IWM) is waste management strategy or tool
that takes cognisance of the most energy efficient, least polluting ways to deal
with the various components and items of a community’s solid waste stream.
Integrated waste management is official state policy a nation can adapt to
[8]
effectively tackle solid waste management challenges. The integrated waste
management hierarchy is based upon the material and energy that is embodies
in solid waste and that is associated with its recycling and disposal.

Fig. Material recovery facility

The twin goals of integrated waste management are to:

a. Retain as much as possible of that energy and those materials in a useful

state
b. Avoid releasing that energy or matter into the environment as a
pollutant.

Integrated waste management sets up a hierarchy of approaches and

technologies for managing solid waste in order to meet these goals.

[9]
 CHAPTER II

2.0. METHODS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

In Nigeria, the processes involved in the management of wastes are: storage,

collection, transportation and disposal at dumpsites.

Fig 1. Process of Solid Waste Management Strategy

There are different techniques of solid waste management/disposal but the

common techniques are landfill, incineration, composting, recycling.
Incineration is a cost effective solid waste management option which is seldom
applied in Nigeria hospitals where medical waste are incinerated at a minimal
scale.

The cheapest and simplest method of waste disposal is landfill. The resulting
environmental impact of landfills is enormous but could be mitigated, provided
sanitary precautions are undertaken and waste reduction is advocated.
Landfills were responsible for 49% of England methane emissions in 2007.
Moreover, recycling which is an environmentally friendly option is not fully
adopted. There are no formal recycling sectors in Nigeria. Waste are recycled
informally by scavengers who buy un-use valuables from people and also go to
legal and illegal dump sites in search of materials that can be re-used and
recycled.

Solid waste management is broken into four basic areas. They are; Landfilling,
composting, incineration and recycling.

1. Landfilling
2. Composting
3. Incineration and
4. Recycling.

[10]
2.1. Landfills

The environmental concern with landfills is their potential to pollute the

groundwater (Oyeniyi, 2011). The pollutants in the waste can cause health and
other environmental problems if allowed to migrate into the groundwater
because 70 % of the nation’s drinking water originates from groundwater. The
pollutants are caused by chemical reactions that make metals become soluble
and migrate when not properly contained in a landfill. This methane gas can
kill local vegetation and cause erosion problems for the containing berms and
caps.

Fig. An Engineered sanitary Landfill

A landfill site also known as a tip, dump, rubbish dump, garbage dump or
dumping ground, is a site for the disposal of waste materials. Landfill is the
oldest and most common form of waste disposal, although the systematic
burial of the waste with daily intermediate and final covers only began in the
1940s. In the past, refuse was simply left in piles or thrown into pits.

Some landfill sites are used for waste management purpose, such as
temporary storage, consolidation and transfer or for various stages of
processing waste materials, such as sorting, treatment or recycling. Unless they
are stabilized, landfills may undergo severe shaking or soil liquefaction of the
ground during an earthquake. Once full, the area over a landfill site may be
reclaimed for other uses. Landfilling could however still have adverse
conditions when it starts aging or if the design and construction was poor.

[11]
Some of the adverse environmental conditions are the spread of litters by
wind, contamination of groundwater by leachate attraction of rodents etc.
Another challenge with the use of landfill technique is the emission of methane
and carbondioxide gases which contribute majorly to greenhouse effect.

2.1.1. Components of a Landfill

The main components of any secured, permitted landfill are;

a. Bottom liner: The bottom liner separates and prevents the buried waste
from coming in contact with underlying natural soils and groundwater.
In municipal solid waste landfills, the bottom liners are generally
constructed using some type of durable, puncture – resistant synthetic.
Plastic HDPE (High density polyethylene ranging from 30 to 100mils
thick.

b. Cells (Old and New): This is the area in a landfill that has been
constructed and approve for disposal of waste. These cells range insize
(depending upon total tons of waste received each day at the landfill)
from a few acres to as large as 20 + acres. Inside these largers cells
smaller cells known as the daily workface or sometimes referred to as
cells. This is where the waste coming into the landfill for the disposal
that day is prepared by placing the material in layers or lifts where the
waste is then compacted and shredded by heavy landfill compaction
machinery.

c. Leachate collection system: The bottom of each landfill is typically

designed so that the bottom surface of the landfill is sloped to a low
point, called a sump. This is where any liquids that are trapped inside the
landfill. Known in the waste industry as leachate, are collected and
removed from the landfill. The leach ate collection system typically
consists of a series of perforated pipes, gravel packs and a layer of sand
or ravel placed in the bottom of the landfill.
Once, the leach ate is removed from the sump, it is typically pumped or
gravity - flowed to a holding tank or pond, where it is either treated on
site or hauled offsite to a public or private wastewater treatment
facility.

[12]
 d. Storm water drainage: This is an engineered system designed to control
water runoff during rain or storm events. This is done by directing the
runoff through a series of berms or ditches to holding area known as
seed ponds. In these ponds, the runoff water flow is slowed down or
held long enough to allow the suspended soil particles to settle out
before the water is discharged off site.

e. Methane collection system: Bacteria in the landfill break down the trash
in the absence of oxygen. This process produces landfill gas, which is
approximately 50% methane. Since methane gas has the potential to
burn or explode, it has to be removed from the landfill. To do this, a
series of pipes are embedded within the landfill to collected the
methane. This gas, once collected, can be either naturally vented or
control - burned.

f. Cover (or cap): Waste that is place in a cell is required to be covered

daily with either six inches of compacted soil or an alternative daily
cover. Some examples of alternative daily covers are the application of
spray – on cover material, such as foam or a flame- retardant fibre
material. Another type of alternative daily cover is large panels of
tarpaulin – type material that is laid over the waste at the end of each
day and removed the next day before waste is placed. Other areas
within the cells that are not to final grade and will not receive placement
of additional waste for a period of time may require additional cover.
This is known as intermediate cover, generally 12 to 18 inches of soil.
Covering (or caping) is performed in order to isolate the waste from
exposure to the air, pests (such as birds, rats and mice) and to control
odours. When a section of the landfill is finished or filled to capacity, it is
permanently covered with a combination of a layer of polyethylene
plastic, compacted soil and a layer of top soil that will support growth of
vegetation to prevent erosion.

2.1.2. Advantages of Landfill

Landfills when properly sited and operated:

a. Do not pollute the ground water.

b. Prevents unsightliness and odour nuisance.
[13]
 c. Checks fly breeding and infestation by rodents and vermin.
d. Is a source of useful energy like methane gas.
e. Provides employment for numerous operators.
f. Is a big business for investors.
g. Yields manure for agricultural purposes.

2.1.3. Disadvantages of Landfills

Apart from the prohibitive initial capital outlay and the large expanse of land
taken up by landfill sites, a large number of adverse impacts may occur from
landfill operations. Damage occurrence can include:

a. Infrastructures (e.g damage to access roads by heavy vehicles).

b. Pollution of the local environment (such as contamination of
groundwater and / or aquifer by leakage or sinkholes and residual soil
contamination during landfill usage as well as after landfill closure).
c. Off gassing of methane generated by decaying organic wastes (methane
is a greenhouse gas many times more potent than carbon dioxide and
can itself be a danger to inhabitation of an area.
d. Harbouring of disease vectors. Such a rats and flies, particularly from
improperly operated landfills, which are common in developing
countries.
e. Injuries to wildlife.

2.2. Compositing

Composting is a method of solid waste management in which organic material

is allowed to decompose naturally. This process results in a stable, humus-like
material that can be used as a soil amendment to improve the quality of soil
and promote plant growth.

In Nigeria, composting can be an effective way to manage organic waste, such

as food scraps, yard trimmings, and agricultural waste. These materials can be
collected and placed in a compost bin or pile, where they will break down over
time through the action of microorganisms. The resulting compost can be used
in gardens and farming operations to improve soil structure and fertility, while
also reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

[14]
The composting process can be broken into the following steps:

1. Collect organic waste materials: This can include food waste, yard waste,
and other biodegradable materials. It is important to separate these
materials from non-biodegradable waste, such as plastic and metal, as they
will not break down in the composting process.

2. Choose a suitable location for the compost pile: The compost pile should
be located in a dry, well-ventilated area that receives plenty of sunlight. It
should also be located away from sources of pollution, such as heavy traffic
or industrial areas.

3. Build the compost pile: The compost pile should be at least 3 feet wide and
3 feet tall, with a depth of at least 1 foot. It can be built using a variety of
materials, including wood, brick, or concrete blocks.

4. Add the organic waste materials: The organic waste materials should be
evenly distributed throughout the compost pile, with a mixture of "green"
materials (such as food waste and grass clippings) and "brown" materials
(such as leaves and twigs).

5. Monitor and maintain the compost pile: The compost pile should be
turned regularly to ensure that it is well aerated, and the moisture content
should be monitored to ensure that it is not too dry or too wet. The
compost is ready to be used when it is dark, crumbly, and has a pleasant,
earthy smell.

2.2.1. METHODS OF COMPOSTING

There are several methods that can be used to compost, including

backyard composting, vermicomposting, and tumbler composting.

a) Backyard composting: Backyard composting is a simple and inexpensive

method that can be done in a small space, such as a backyard or
balcony. To start backyard composting, you will need a compost bin or
pile to contain the organic materials. You can purchase a compost bin or
make your own using materials such as wood or wire fencing. To start
the composting process, add a layer of brown materials, such as leaves
or straw, to the bottom of the bin. Then, add a layer of green materials,

[15]
 such as food scraps and grass clippings. Add water to the bin to help the
materials decompose. Mix the materials occasionally to aerate them and
help them decompose faster.

b) Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting is a method of composting that

uses worms to break down organic matter. To start vermicomposting,
you will need a container, such as a plastic bin, and worms, such as red
worms or red wigglers. Add bedding material, such as shredded
newspaper or straw, to the container. Add the worms and organic
material to the container, and keep the compost moist by adding water.
The worms will eat the organic material and produce compost as they
move through the bedding.

c) Tumbler composting: Tumbler composting is a method that uses a

rotating barrel or tumbler to mix the organic materials and speed up the
composting process. To start tumbler composting, you will need a
tumbler and organic materials. Add the organic materials to the tumbler
and use the handle to rotate the tumbler every few days. The tumbling
action helps mix the materials and aerate them, which speeds up the
composting process

Fig. A Composting equipment.

[16]
2.2.2. Advantages of Using Composting As a Method of Solid Waste
Management in Nigeria

Composting has several benefits as a method of solid waste management in

Nigeria, including:

1. Reducing waste: Composting helps to reduce the amount of waste that

ends up in landfills, which can save space and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
2. Improving soil health: Compost can be used as a natural fertilizer to
improve soil health, structure, and fertility, which can in turn increase
crop yields and decrease the need for synthetic fertilizers.
3. Water conservation: Compost can help to retain water in soil, which can
be beneficial in areas with limited access to irrigation.
4. Pollution prevention: Composting organic waste instead of sending it to
a landfill can help to reduce air and water pollution.
5. Economic benefits: Composting can create new jobs and business
opportunities, as well as reduce the cost of waste management for
individuals and communities.
6. Climate change: Composting organic waste instead of sending it to a
landfill can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which can help to
mitigate the impacts of climate change.

2.2.3. DISAVANTAGES OF USING COMPOSTING AS A METHOD OF SOLID

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

There are several potential drawbacks to using composting as a method of

solid waste management in Nigeria. Here are a few possible demerits:

a) Limited capacity: Composting facilities can only process a certain

amount of waste at a time, so they may not be able to handle all of the
solid waste generated in a given area.

b) Initial cost: Setting up a composting facility can be expensive, especially

if it requires the purchase of specialized equipment.

c) Odor: If not managed properly, composting can produce unpleasant

odors.

[17]
 d) Pest and rodent issues: Composting facilities can attract pests and
rodents if not properly maintained.

e) Limited end uses: While compost can be used in agriculture and

landscaping, it may not be practical for all types of waste and may not be
in high demand in all areas.

f) Time-consuming: The composting process can take several weeks or

months to complete, depending on the type of waste and the
composting method used.

g) Limited accessibility: Not all communities may have easy access to

composting facilities, especially in rural areas.

2.3. Incineration
Incineration is a method of solid waste management that involves the
burning of solid waste materials in order to reduce their volume and/or to
destroy harmful substances they may contain. The process of incineration
typically involves heating the waste to a high temperature in an enclosed
chamber, called an incinerator, in order to break down the waste and
convert it into ash, gases, and heat. The gases and heat produced during
incineration can be used to generate electricity, while the ash can be
landfilled or used in other applications.

Fig.1 Solid waste Incinerator

[18]
2.3.1. Types of Incineration Systems

There are several types of incineration systems that can be used for solid
waste management, each with its own unique features and capabilities. These
types of systems include:

a) Mass burn systems: Mass burn systems are the most common type of
incinerator and are designed to burn a variety of solid waste materials,
including household waste, commercial waste, and industrial waste.
These systems typically consist of a large, enclosed chamber, called an
incinerator, where the waste is burned at high temperatures. The heat
produced during the burning process is used to generate steam, which
can be used to generate electricity or to provide heat for industrial or
residential purposes. The ash that is produced during the burning
process is typically collected and disposed of in a landfill.

b) Refuse-derived fuel systems: Refuse-derived fuel systems are similar to

mass burn systems, but they are specifically designed to process waste
into a fuel that can be used to generate electricity or heat. These
systems involve the separation of waste materials into different
categories, such as paper, plastic, and metal, which are then processed
into a fuel that can be burned in a power plant or other facility. Refuse-
derived fuel systems can be more efficient than mass burn systems, as
they can generate more heat per unit of waste and produce less ash.

c) Hazardous waste incinerators: Hazardous waste incinerators are

specialized systems that are designed to safely destroy hazardous waste
materials, such as chemicals and medical waste. These systems are
typically larger and more complex than mass burn or refuse-derived fuel
systems, and they are designed to safely destroy a wide range of
hazardous substances. Hazardous waste incinerators are equipped with
advanced pollution control technologies to minimize the release of
harmful pollutants into the air and protect human health and the
environment.

[19]
2.3.2. Advantages of Incineration as Method of Solid Waste Management In
Nigeria

a) Incineration reduces the volume of solid waste: When waste materials

are burned, they are converted into ash, which is much smaller in
volume than the original waste. This means that there is less waste to
transport, store, and dispose of, which can save money and resources.

b) Incineration can generate energy: The heat produced during the

incineration process can be used to generate electricity or to heat
buildings. This can help to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions. Some incineration facilities are designed to
capture and use the heat generated by the burning process, while others
use the flue gases produced by the incinerator to generate electricity.

c) Incineration can help to reduce the spread of disease: Many types of

waste, such as medical waste and animal carcasses, can harbor
pathogens that can spread disease. Incinerating these materials can help
to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

d) Incineration can help to reduce the environmental impact of waste:

When waste decomposes in landfills, it can release methane, a potent
greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Incineration reduces the amount
of methane produced by decomposing waste and can help to mitigate
the negative impact of waste on the environment.

e) Incineration can be used to manage a wide range of waste materials:

Incineration can be used to manage a wide range of waste materials,
including plastics, paper, and medical waste. This makes it a flexible and
versatile option for solid waste management.

2.3.3. Disadvantages of Incineration as Method of Solid Waste Management

In Nigeria

There are several disadvantages of using incineration as a method of

solid waste management:

a) Incineration can be expensive: Building and operating an incineration

facility can be costly, especially when compared to other waste

[20]
 management options such as landfilling. The initial capital costs of
building an incinerator can be high, and the on-going costs of operating
the facility, such as fuel and maintenance, can also be significant.

b) Incineration can produce air pollution: If not properly controlled, the

burning of waste materials can release a variety of air pollutants into the
atmosphere. These pollutants can include particulate matter, nitrogen
oxides, sulphur dioxide, and other toxic substances. Incineration facilities
must be designed and operated in a way that minimizes the release of
these pollutants, but it is not always possible to eliminate them
completely.

c) Incineration can release toxic substances: Some waste materials, such

as batteries and electronic devices, contain toxic substances that can be
released into the air when they are burned. Incineration facilities must
be equipped with air pollution control systems to capture and remove
these toxic substances, but it is not always possible to eliminate them
completely.

d) Incineration can generate ash and other by-products: Incineration

produces ash, which must be disposed of in a safe and responsible
manner. Some types of ash, such as that produced by the incineration of
medical waste, may be classified as hazardous and must be disposed of
in a special landfill.

e) Incineration may not be suitable for all types of waste: Some types of
waste, such as wet or bulky materials, may not be suitable for
incineration. These materials may need to be processed or treated in a
different way before they can be burned.

It is important to note that these disadvantages can be mitigated through

proper planning and design of the incineration facility, as well as careful
operation and maintenance of the facility. However, incineration is not a
perfect solution, and it may not be the best option for every community
or situation.

[21]
2.4. Recycling

Recycling in solid waste management is the reuse of waste materials through

the reprocessing of the materials into new products. The recyclable materials
may be collected differently from the others in the waste stream using
dedicated waste bins and collection trucks.

Fig. A Plastic Recycling plant

Sometimes, the generator of the waste is made to separate it into different

components and stored in different bins prior to collection. Recycling of wastes
consist of finding new ways of using previously discarded materials (wood,
glass, plastics, metals, textiles, cardboard, paper, leather, rubber and ceramics
and in further production of useable goods .Solid waste recycling is therefore
recognized as a tenable solution for cleaning up the cluttered environment.
Organic solid wastes can also be recycled into fertilizer for agricultural
purposes. Recycling reduces the amount of household solid waste to be
collected, transported and disposed

2.4.1. Types of Recycling

Recycling can be classified into several types, including:

a) Single-stream recycling: This type of recycling involves the collection

of all recyclable materials in a single container, which is then taken to
a facility where the materials are sorted and processed.

[22]
 b) Source-separated recycling: This type of recycling involves the
collection of specific types of materials in separate containers or bins.
For example, paper might be collected in one bin, while plastic
bottles are collected in another.

c) Curbside recycling: This type of recycling involves the collection of

recyclable materials from residential homes and businesses using a
specialized truck.

d) Drop-off recycling: This type of recycling involves the collection of

recyclable materials at a central location, such as a recycling center or
a retail store.

e) Industrial recycling: This type of recycling involves the collection and

processing of materials generated by industrial processes.

f) E-waste recycling: This type of recycling involves the collection and

processing of electronic waste, such as computers, laptops, and
smartphones.

g) Hazardous waste recycling: This type of recycling involves the

collection and proper disposal of hazardous materials, such as
chemicals and batteries.

2.4.2. Benefits of Using Recycling as a Method of Solid Waste Management in

Nigeria

There are several benefits to using recycling as a method of solid waste

management in Nigeria:

1. Reduction of waste: Recycling can help to reduce the amount of waste

that is generated, as recyclable materials are collected and processed
rather than being sent to landfills or incinerated.

2. Conservation of natural resources: Recycling can help to conserve

natural resources, such as timber, water, and minerals, by using recycled
materials instead of extracting and processing new ones.

[23]
 3. Energy conservation: Recycling can help to conserve energy, as the
process of recycling many materials requires less energy than extracting
and processing raw materials.

4. Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: Recycling can help to reduce

greenhouse gas emissions, as the process of recycling generates fewer
emissions than the production of new materials.

5. Economic benefits: Recycling can create jobs and stimulate economic

growth, as the recycling industry generates revenue and can lead to the
development of new businesses.

6. Improving public health: Proper waste management, including recycling,

can help to reduce the negative impacts of waste on public health by
preventing the release of harmful chemicals and reducing the breeding
grounds for disease-carrying pests.

2.4.3. DEMERITS OF RECYCLING

There are a few potential drawbacks to using recycling as a method of solid

waste management in Nigeria:

1. Cost: Recycling can be more expensive than other waste management

options, such as landfilling or incineration. The cost of collecting,
transporting, and processing recyclable materials can be significant.

2. Limited recycling infrastructure: In some areas of Nigeria, the recycling

infrastructure may be limited, making it difficult to collect and process
recyclable materials.

3. Contamination: Recycling can be compromised if materials are

contaminated with non-recyclable materials or if they are not properly
sorted. This can make it difficult to produce high-quality recycled
materials and can also increase the cost of recycling.

4. Limited market for recycled materials: In some cases, there may be

limited demand for recycled materials, which can make it difficult to sell
them and generate revenue.

[24]
5. Social and environmental impacts: While recycling can have positive
social and environmental impacts, there may be negative impacts as
well. For example, the collection and transportation of recyclable
materials can generate air and noise pollution, and the processing of
materials can also have negative impacts on the environment.

[25]
 CHAPTER III

3.0. LEGISLATION ON SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

The Solid Waste Management Act of 2007 is the main legislation governing
solid waste management in Nigeria (Rigasa et al,2015). The Act establishes a
framework for the proper management of solid waste in the country, with the
goal of promoting waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.

The Act requires local governments to develop and implement solid waste
management plans, and it establishes a system for the collection,
transportation, and disposal of solid waste. It also imposes penalties for
individuals and businesses that violate the Act, including fines and
imprisonment.

The Act also establishes the National Environmental Standards and Regulations
Enforcement Agency (NESREA) as the agency responsible for enforcing
compliance with the Act. NESREA is responsible for ensuring that local
governments are complying with their solid waste management plans and that
individuals and businesses are following the provisions of the Act.

The Act includes provisions for the segregation of waste at the point of
generation, the establishment of waste management facilities, and the
development of public awareness campaigns to promote good waste
management practices. It also requires the development of policies and plans
for the management of hazardous and toxic waste, and it establishes a system
for the tracking and reporting of waste-related activities.

3.1. Environmental Management and Protection Act (EMPA) Of 1999

Another legislation related to solid waste management in Nigeria is the

Environmental Management and Protection Act (EMPA) of 1999.Under the
EMPA, local authorities are responsible for the collection, transportation, and
disposal of solid waste within their jurisdictions. The EMPA also requires local
authorities to establish and operate waste management facilities, such as
landfill sites, in accordance with the guidelines and standards set by NESREA.

[26]
Fig Waste Management Hierarchy, Source: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (2009)

3.2. Other Legislations on Solid Waste Management in Nigeria

In addition to the EMPA, the following legislation also has a bearing on solid
waste management in Nigeria:

a) The National Policy on the Environment (NPE) of 2007: This policy

outlines the overall approach to environmental management in Nigeria,
including the management of solid waste.
b) The National Waste Management Strategy (NWMS) of 2011: This
strategy provides a framework for the integrated management of solid
waste in Nigeria, including the development of a national waste
database and the establishment of waste management infrastructure.
c) The National Solid Waste Management Act (NSWMA) of 2007: This act
establishes a legal framework for the management of solid waste in
Nigeria, including the establishment of a national solid waste
management fund to finance waste management activities.

Overall, the legal framework for solid waste management in Nigeria is designed
to promote the responsible and sustainable management of solid waste in the
country, and to protect the environment and public health from the negative
impacts of poor waste management.

[27]
 CHAPTER IV

4.0. BENEFITS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

Proper solid waste management is important for a number of reasons:

4.1. Environmental protection: Proper solid waste management helps to

protect the environment by reducing the negative impacts of waste.
Landfills can leach harmful chemicals into the soil and water, and burning
waste can release pollutants into the air. Proper solid waste management
helps to prevent these negative impacts.

4.2. Public health: Improper solid waste management can also have negative
impacts on public health. Waste that is not properly disposed of can
attract pests, such as rats and flies, which can spread diseases. Proper
solid waste management helps to reduce the risk of these diseases.

4.3. Resource conservation: Landfills take up a lot of space and resources. By

properly managing solid waste, we can reduce the amount of waste that
ends up in landfills and conserve natural resources. Recycling programs,
for example, can help to conserve resources by turning waste materials
into new products.

4.4. Economic benefits: Proper solid waste management can also have
economic benefits. Recycling programs, for example, can create jobs and
save money by reducing the need to extract and process raw materials.
Landfills also require a lot of resources to operate, so reducing the
amount of waste that goes to landfills can save money on these costs.

4.5. Aesthetics: Proper solid waste management can also help to improve the
appearance of a community, as it helps to reduce litter and unsightly piles
of waste. A clean and well-managed community can be more attractive to
residents and tourists.

Overall, proper solid waste management is important for the protection of the
environment, public health, resource conservation, economic development,
and the aesthetics of a community.

[28]
 CHAPTER V

5.0. EFFECTS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

In Nigeria, like in any other country, proper management of solid waste is

important for both environmental and public health reasons (Oyinloye &
Tokunbo, 2013).Some of the potential effects of poor solid waste management
in Nigeria include:

5.1. Environmental Pollution: Improper disposal of solid waste can lead to the
contamination of soil and water sources, which can have serious
consequences for the environment. For example, if chemical waste is not
properly disposed of, it can seep into the ground and contaminate the
water supply, posing a risk to both plants and animals.

5.2. Public Health Risks: Poor solid waste management can also have serious
public health consequences. For example, if garbage is not properly
collected and disposed of, it can attract pests such as rats and mosquitoes,
which can spread diseases. In addition, the burning of waste, which is
common in many parts of Nigeria, can release harmful pollutants into the
air that can have negative effects on human health.

5.3. Economic Costs: The costs associated with poor solid waste management
can be significant. For example, if a community's water supply becomes
contaminated due to improper waste disposal, it can be expensive to clean
up the contamination and ensure that the water is safe to drink. In
addition, the cost of treating diseases and other health problems caused by
poor waste management can be high.

Overall, the effects of solid waste management in Nigeria are diverse and can
have both positive and negative impacts on public health, the environment,
and the economy. By properly managing solid waste, it is possible to minimize
negative impacts and maximize the benefits of waste management for all
stakeholders.

[29]
 CHAPTER VI

6.0. CHALLENGES FACING SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

There are several major challenges that contribute to difficulties with solid
waste management in Nigeria. One good example of this can be seen in the
city of Lagos, where waste collection is often irregular and landfill sites are
overcrowded.

Fig. Solid waste scenarios in some cities (Lagos)

This has led to the proliferation of illegal dumpsites and the burning of waste,
which has negative impacts on the environment and public health.

Some of the challenges of solid waste management include:

6.1. Insufficient infrastructure: There is a lack of sufficient infrastructure, such

as landfill sites and waste processing facilities, to effectively manage the
large amounts of solid waste produced in the country. This leads to illegal
dumping and littering, which can have negative impacts on the
environment and public health.

[30]
6.2. Limited government resources: The government in Nigeria often lacks the
resources and funding necessary to address solid waste management
issues effectively. This can make it difficult to implement new initiatives or
improve existing systems.

6.3. Lack of public education and awareness: Many people in Nigeria are not
aware of the importance of proper waste management or how to properly
dispose of waste. This can lead to improper disposal of waste, which
contributes to environmental and public health problems.

6.4. Lack of formal waste collection systems: Many areas in Nigeria do not
have formal waste collection systems in place, which means that waste is
often left on the streets or in public spaces. This can lead to unsanitary
conditions and public health risks.

6.5. Poor enforcement of existing laws and regulations: There are laws and
regulations in place that are meant to address solid waste management
issues in Nigeria, but these are often poorly enforced. This can make it
difficult to effectively address waste management challenges in the
country.

Finally, improving solid waste management in Nigeria will require a

combination of increased funding, better infrastructure, and greater public
awareness and education.

[31]
 CHAPTER VII

7.0. CONCLUSION

In conclusion, solid waste management is a major challenge facing Nigeria. The

country lacks the necessary infrastructure and resources to effectively manage
its solid waste, leading to inadequate collection and processing of waste and
the proliferation of illegal dumpsites. Poor enforcement of regulations and a
lack of public awareness also contribute to the challenges of solid waste
management in Nigeria.

It is important for the government and private sector to work together to

address these challenges and improve solid waste management in the country.
This could include investing in infrastructure and technology, enforcing
regulations, and raising public awareness about the importance of proper
waste management. By addressing these issues, Nigeria can reduce
environmental pollution and protect public health, leading to a more
sustainable and livable society.

[32]
REFERENCES

"Solid Waste Management in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities." by

Oreyomi, O. A., & Olufayo, O. I. in Journal of Environmental Management
and Tourism, vol. 7, no. 4, 2005, pp. 541-550.

Bamgbose, I. N., Nnorom, I, C., & Kanno, O. C. (2000). Issues of Roadside

Disposal Habit of Municipal Solid Waste, Environmental Impacts and
Implementation of Sound Management Practices in Developing Country
“Nigeria”. International Journal of Environmental Science and
Development Vol.1, No.5, 409-418.

"Assessment of Solid Waste Management in Nigeria: The Case of Onitsha

Metropolis." by Afon, E. C., & Bassey, J. C. in International Journal of
Environmental Science and Development, vol. 5, no. 6, 2006, pp. 429-435.

"Integrated Solid Waste Management in Nigeria: Opportunities and

Challenges." by Dauda, T. O., & Osita, C. O. in African Journal of
Environmental Science and Technology, vol. 10, no. 5, 2002, pp. 191-199.

"Solid Waste Management Practices in Nigeria: A Review." by Bakare, A. O. in

Advances in Natural and Applied Sciences, vol. 10, no. 2, 2016, pp. 59-64.

"An Overview of Solid Waste Management in Nigeria." by George, C. N., &

Chukwu, C. C. in Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 187, 2010, pp. 871-
879.

Imam, A., Mohammed, B., Wilson, D. C., & Cheeseman, C. R. (2008). Solid
waste management in Abuja, Nigeria. Waste Management, 28(2), 468-
472. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wasman.2007.01.006.

Onwurah, I. N. E., Ogugua, V. N., & Otitoju, O. F. (2006). Integrated

environmental biotechnology-oriented framework for solid waste
management and control in Nigeria. International Journal of Environment
and waste management, 1(1), 94-104.

Oyeniyi, A. B. (2011). Waste Management in Contemporary Nigeria : The Abuja

Example. International Journal of Politics and Good Governance, 2(2), 1–
18. http://onlineresearchjournals.com/ijopagg/art/73.pdf.

[33]
Rigasa, Y. A., Abdulkarim, B. I., Badamasi, A. G. (2015). Waste management
services: A strategy for the integration of ‘Almajiri’ into current waste
management action plans of urban centres in northern Nigeria. Biological
and Environmental Sciences Journal for the Tropics, 12(1), pp 558-565.

Oyinloye, M. A., & Tokunbo, M. F. (2013). Geo-Information for Urban Waste

Disposal and Management : The Case Study of Owo LGA, Ondo State,
Nigeria. The International Journal of Engineering and Science (IJES), 2(9),
19–31.

[34]