Assessing Residents' Satisfaction with Waste Management Approaches in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Abstract

Effective waste management is crucial for maintaining clean, healthy and sustainable urban environments. Port Harcourt Metropolis, a rapidly urbanizing region in Nigeria, faces distinctive waste management challenges. Understanding residents' satisfaction with waste management systems and services is a pivotal step towards a cleaner and healthier city. This study aims to assess residents' satisfaction with waste management approaches in Port Harcourt Metropolis. Utilizing a quantitative and descriptive research design, this study collects data through structured questionnaires distributed to 340 households. The sample is thoughtfully selected using stratified random sampling, ensuring representation from various communities within the two key local government areas (Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor). Quantitative data are analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and the Likert scale. The study provides a comprehensive profile of residents, including gender, marital status, age, length of stay, household size, educational status, employment status, and monthly income. It also reveals residents' levels of satisfaction with critical waste management practices, including waste collection, receptacle evacuation, and monthly environmental sanitation exercises. The discussion of findings highlights various avenues for potential improvements in waste management practices within the Port Harcourt Metropolis, contributing to a cleaner and healthier urban environment. Keywords: waste management, socio-economic characteristics, residents' satisfaction, Port Harcourt Metropolis, urban environment.