An overview of municipal solid waste management in developing and developed economies: Analysis of practices and contributions to urban flooding in Sub-Saharan Africa

Njoku, N; Lamond, Jessica; Everett, Glyn; Manu, Patrick

Abstract

Different natural and anthropogenic factors have contributed to increased flood events in recent times. Studies have noted the impact of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) practices on increased flooding. Increases in population, economic growth and rapid urbanisation, especially in developing countries, have led to increased waste production. Despite economic growth, countries in the Southern hemisphere are struggling to cope with the levels of waste generated in their cities. This paper presents global differences in waste generation, composition, legislation and general practices based on existing literature. An understanding of the relationship between MSWM practices and urban flood risk is significant in order to save lives, properties and reduce the direct and indirect effects of environmental degradation. This paper reviews the various MSWM practices and critically studies the constraints and challenges in Nigeria. Nigeria, the most populous African country, the largest economy in Africa and the 26th-biggest economy in the world has a history of flooding and unsustainable waste management practices. This research reveals a gap in knowledge about the contribution of MSWM practices to urban flood risk, and will act as the basis for future research around their relationship.

Citation

Njoku, N., Lamond, J., Everett, G., & Manu, P. (2015, June). An overview of municipal solid waste management in developing and developed economies: Analysis of practices and contributions to urban flooding in Sub-Saharan Africa. Paper presented at 12th International Postgraduate Research Conference Proceedings

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: 12th International Postgraduate Research Conference Proceedings
• Start Date: Jun 10, 2015
• End Date: Jun 12, 2015
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2015
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 200-212
• Keywords: cities, developing countries, municipal waste, Nigeria, urban floods
• Publisher URL: http://www.salford-ipgrc.com/downloads/IPGRC_2015_Proceedings_FINAL_ed.pdf
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : 12th International Postgraduate Research Conference Proceedings