Solid waste management problems in secondary schools in Ibadan, Nigeria

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Public Health
• Waste Management

Background:

• Inappropriate solid waste management in schools in less-developed urban areas contributes to declining environmental health.
• Schools in urban communities face significant challenges in managing solid waste effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess solid waste management problems in selected urban secondary schools in Ibadan, Nigeria.
• To identify common waste disposal practices and associated challenges within these educational institutions.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in eight randomly selected secondary schools in Ibadan, Nigeria.
• Data were collected using 400 administered questionnaires (50 per school) and an observational checklist to assess the physical environment.

Main Results:

• Paper and plastics were the most frequently generated wastes.
• Common disposal methods included dustbin collection and open burning, with perceived problems of odors, pest infestation, and spillages.
• Inadequate waste management facilities, such as a lack of refuse bins, were identified, contributing to spillages and burning practices.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights inadequate waste management facilities and practices in the sampled schools.
• Poor waste management poses a community environmental health nuisance and compromises school environmental quality.
• Addressing these issues is crucial for improving both public health and educational settings.