Environmental studies and characterization of solid waste in selected dump site, in Rivers State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66817/h8eydg88Keywords:
dumpsite management, municipal solid waste, waste characterization, Environmental pollution, Port Harcourt, sustainable waste management, urban sanitationAbstract
This study investigated the environmental characteristics and composition of solid waste generated at selected dumpsites in Igwuruta, Rumuolumeni, Oyigbo, and Eleme. The study was undertaken to evaluate the quantity, composition, and environmental implications of municipal solid waste within Rivers State, Nigeria. A descriptive field survey and experimental research design were adopted for the study. Solid waste samples were collected randomly from the selected dump sites, sorted into different waste categories, and analyzed using standard waste characterization procedures. Environmental conditions surrounding the dump sites were also assessed through field observations and measurement of selected environmental parameters. The findings revealed substantial variations in waste generation across the study locations and weeks of assessment. A total cumulative waste quantity of 34,746.80 kg was recorded during the study period, with Week 2 having the highest waste collection value of 8,132.77 kg. Rumuolumeni recorded the highest waste generation among the selected locations. The major waste components identified were plastics, food and organic wastes, paper/cardboard, metals, glass, textiles, and miscellaneous wastes. Plastic waste constituted the dominant refuse type across all locations, while glass waste recorded the least quantity. The study established that increasing urbanization, population growth, poor waste segregation, and inadequate waste management practices contribute significantly to environmental pollution and public health risks in the study area. The study therefore recommends improved waste collection systems, recycling programmes, environmental education, and sustainable waste management strategies to enhance environmental sanitation and sustainability in Rivers State.
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