CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction

This chapter presents the background of the study, statement of problem, grassland specific objective, research questions, significance of the study, justification, scope of study, and op-rational and conceptual definition of terms.

1.1 Background of the Study

Waste is any material or substance in whatever form, whether solid, liquid or gaseous, hazardous or non-hazardous, organic or inorganic that has lost its primary value and is disposed of, intended to be disposed of or recycled (EPA,2020). Waste management revers to the various schemes to manage and dispose waste. It can be by discarding, destroying, processing, recycling, reusing, or controlling waste (Washington and world, 2022).

Waste management has evolved significantly throughout history as societies have recognized the need for organized systems to handle waste and mitigate its adverse effects on public health and the environment. Solid waste is any type of garbage, trash, refuse or discarded material (WHO.2022).The first occurrence of organized solid waste management system appeared in London in the late 18th century (nightingale, 1954) In the United State, the modern concept of solid waste management emerged in the 1980s when a growing number of American citizens provided a basic level of solid waste collection and disposal (Dillion.20230).

Waste disposal systems were developed and the practice varied from one region to another. This system involved the collection of waste outside the city walls into nearby bodies of water. In some cities waste was thrown into streets and open spaces leading unsanitary conditions and spread of diseases (Jutla et al.2011).

The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in waste production due to increased Urbanization and industrial activities. The rapid population growth and industrialization amounting to waste management challenges (Olakunle.2012).

Land filling became a common practice, with waste being dumped in designated areas without proper containment or environmental considerations. The emergence of public health concerns prompted advancements in waste management. Innovations included improved sanitation systems, and the establishment of organized waste collection services. Incineration gained popularity as a waste disposal method, particularly for medical waste and organic material (Olakunle.2012). However, concerns about air pollution and toxic emissions led to strict regulations on incineration processes.

Environmental awareness and concerns over resource depletion and   pollution prompted a shift towards more sustainable waste management practices. Recycling and waste reduction initiatives gained traction, with increasing emphasis on waste segregation, recycling programs, and the development of recycling infrastructure (Olakunle.20120).

Wilson et al. (2017) analyzed waste generation patterns and waste composition in various regions, highlighting the importance of accurate data for effective waste management and planning. Ojeda-Benítez et al. (2020), discussed various waste collection systems, such as door-to-door collection, communal collection, and mobile collection, were evaluated in terms of efficiency, cost, effectiveness, and environmental impacts. A review by Al-Salem et al.(2017)  explore different waste treatment technologies, including land filling, incineration, composting, anaerobic digestion, and recycling, discussing the advantages, limitations, and environmental implications.

A study by Seadon. (2010) reviewed waste management governance frame works, discussing the importance of stake holder engagement, public participation, and policy integration for successful waste management strategies. These studies provide insights into different aspects of waste management, including waste characterization, collection and transportation, treatment technologies, recycling, and policy considerations. They highlight the importance of comprehensive waste management approaches that prioritize waste reduction, resource recovery, and environmental sustainability. The waste hierarchy theory gives top priority to waste prevention, followed by re-use, recycling, recovering and finally disposal. Flurence Nitingale environmental theory state that the importance of health of houses is closely related to the presence of pure air, pure water, effective drainage, cleanliness and light.

Cleanliness outside the house affects the inside. Studies have highlighted the increasing generation of municipal solid waste in urban areas of Cameroon due to population growth, urbanization, and changing consumption patterns (Ngnikam et al.,2017). Waste composition studies in urban areas of Cameroon have shown that organic waste, plastics, paper, and other recyclable materials are significant components of the waste stream (Ngnikam et al., 2017).

Biradar (2014) conducted a study entitled “Awareness of Solid Waste Management among under Graduate Students in Hyderabad, Karnataka Region”.  The study pointed out the better way of managing the waste 8% of the respondents expressed that reducing the quantity of the waste is the better way of managing the waste.

While 22%reusing as the proper way to managing the waste , 58% of the respondents expressed that recycling can be used to manage waste and 12% of them suggested to introduce any new method to manage the waste. The majority of them expressed that lack of awareness among public is the reason for the problem of solid waste. The study also pointed out the need of proper interventions from municipalities. The study suggested that education and awareness programs need to be conduct among public.

1.2 Statement of Problem

Waste disposal is a global problem due to persistent increase in in population and rapid industrialization (Atienza, 2008).

Barely 40% of Cameroon’s generated waste is collected by City Council.  The private sector’s limited capability only allows them to collect 20% of the remaining waste (60%), leaving the remaining 40% uncollected.  The uncollected waste is subjected to other disposal means including burning, throwing in pits and in other unauthorized places, collected by NGO’s, self-help groups in the community and other volunteers (Saunders,2013).

The population of molyko is increasing by the day. Due to the increasing population in molyko, waste has become a major concern. The streets are littered with dirt, and the dirt stay there for days before collection to the disposing site (Nkengetel., 2019). Despite the effort put in by the hyzacam company to manage waste, it’s possible to always see piles of dirt along the streets. Just beside most of this waste, one will fine small food and fruit businesses with flies hovering around and contaminating the food and people will buy and eat.

There are inadequate collection cans and where there are collection cans, people don’t even respect them they just dump dirt outside the can instead of inside for easy disposal or along the road. This pile of dirt produces pungent smell which pollutes the environment and make it uncomfortable for habitation. This has resulted in increased endemic diseases like typhoid, malaria and cholera. Due to this poor practice, this research aims at studying the knowledge and practice of waste management because knowledge directly influences practice.

1.3 Objective of Study

1.3.1 General objective

To assess youth knowledge and practice on waste management in the Molyko community.

1.3.2 Specific objective

1. To assess youths’ knowledge of waste management in the Molyko community.
2. To assess the youth’s practice of waste management and practice in the Molyko community.
3. To assess challenges faced in managing waste in the Molyko community.

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