Household Plastic Waste Dynamics in Zaria Metropolis: Challenges and Pathways to Sustainable Management

Abstract: Plastic waste pollution has emerged as a critical environmental challenge in rapidly urbanising regions of Nigeria, with significant implications for ecosystem integrity and public health. This study assessed the generation, disposal practices, and environmental impact of plastic waste in selected urban communities in Zaria, Kaduna State. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining household surveys (n = 250), field observations, and waste characterisation studies. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative insights were obtained through key informant interviews. The findings revealed that single-use plastics constitute over 60% of household waste, with improper disposal practices such as open dumping and burning being prevalent. Limited access to formal waste management systems and low public awareness were identified as key drivers of unsustainable practices. Environmental assessment indicated blockage of drainage systems, increased flooding risk, and visible degradation of urban landscapes. The study further highlights the potential of community-based waste management models and policy enforcement in mitigating plastic pollution. This research underscores the urgent need for integrated waste management strategies, public education, and strengthened regulatory frameworks to address plastic waste challenges in urban Nigeria. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on sustainable urban development and environmental protection in the Global South.

Keywords: Honey, mead, fermentation, microorganisms, Alcohol content

How to Cite This Article

APA (7th Edition)

Roland, W. N. (2024). Household plastic waste dynamics in Zaria metropolis: Challenges and pathways to sustainable management. Zaria Journal of Science, 1(1), 20–29.

MLA (9th Edition)

Roland, Wilson N. “Household Plastic Waste Dynamics in Zaria Metropolis: Challenges and Pathways to Sustainable Management.” Zaria Journal of Science, vol. 1, no. 1, 2024, pp. 20–29.

Chicago (Author-Date)

Roland, Wilson N. 2024. “Household Plastic Waste Dynamics in Zaria Metropolis: Challenges and Pathways to Sustainable Management.” Zaria Journal of Science 1 (1): 20–29.

Harvard

Roland, W.N., 2024. Household plastic waste dynamics in Zaria metropolis: Challenges and pathways to sustainable management. Zaria Journal of Science, 1(1), pp.20–29.

IEEE

W. N. Roland, “Household plastic waste dynamics in Zaria metropolis: Challenges and pathways to sustainable management,” Zaria Journal of Science, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 20–29, 2024.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited.