Solid Waste Management: Efficient Approach towards Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Abstract

Solid waste management issues are increasing in the developing world like Nigeria due to increase in population every year. Open dumping and irregular collections of solid waste are creating serious environmental threats in towns. In Nigeria, poor solid waste management practices, lack of funds and the irresponsible behavior of dwellers are reflecting the worst scenario in the country. The major solid waste management issues in the towns of a country like Nigeria are due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, insufficient funds and poor management. Open dumps of municipal solid waste are causing serious negative environmental impacts in Nigeria. Research findings are clearly indicating that due to rapid growth in population, increments in solid waste generation rate, poor management, non-implementation of solid waste legislation and lack of funding are responsible for the solid waste management crises in Nigeria. The faulty solid waste management system is creating negative environmental impacts like land and water pollution, infectious diseases, blockage of open drainages and small canals, and loss of biodiversity in Nigeria.