Household solid waste handling practices and recycling value for integrated solid waste management in a developing city in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Municipalities in developing countries are failing to cope with large volumes of solid wastes generated by rapidly increasing urban populations resulting in environmental and public health risks. This study aimed to: (a) quantify, (b) characterize solid wastes, (c) assess potential for on-site reuse and off-site recycling practices at household and suburb levels, and d) evaluate the possible economic benefits that could accrue from on-site reuse and off-site recycling practices in Dangamvura (low-income), Yeovil (middle-income) and Hospital Hill (high-income) suburbs in Mutare City in Zimbabwe. Solid waste was measured from 23 households per suburb. Pre-tested, self-administered questionnaires were used for determining on-site waste handling practices. Weighing scales were used for waste quantification. Results indicated that at least 70% of residents in Dangamvura neither reused waste nor practiced off-site recycling of litter. Between 50% and 80% of people claimed to practice waste reuse and off-site recycling in Yeovil and Hospital Hill respectively. However, about 84% recyclables were found in the waste bins of the sampled households across all three suburbs. The readily recyclables (plastic, paper, metal cans) constituted 44%, potentially recyclables (glass and organic waste)-40% and others-16%. The clear discrepancy of generated solid waste quantities obtained from interview responses and validated weight data indicated a need to substantiate data from questionnaires with actual waste measurements. Through improper waste handling, Dangamvura loses nearly US$45, 000/month potential income from the readily recyclables. This money could provide an income of approximately US$500/month for 90 families. Municipal authorities must collect recyclables from a whole suburb rather than individual households as a viable waste management and poverty alleviation strategy to sustain livelihoods and minimise health hazards in developing countries such as Zimbabwe.