Municipal Solid Waste Disposal and Its Environmental Implications in Wuse Zone 5, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Fast growing cities like Abuja are faced with challenges of municipal solid waste management. The paper examined municipal solid waste disposal methods and its environmental implications in Wuse Zone 5A, FCT, Abuja Nigeria. The study generated data from oral interviews and field observation. The findings reveal that attitudinal irresponsibility, ineptitude and graft have collectively resulted in the ugly system of solid waste disposal in Wuse Zone 5A. The study shows that the dumping of municipal solid wastes on the streets has impacted the environment negatively, some of these impacts are physical nuisance of the solid wastes to the environment, the waste collection centres serve as hideouts to rodents and other dangerous insects, the waste collection centers also emit offensive odour. The solid waste may decompose to emit methane gas, which contributes to climate change. The paper recommends that the AEPB should have adequate financial provision, public orientation and new environmental laws should be put in place, community full participation in waste management be encouraged, and a better method of waste collection be provided.