Spatial analysis of solid waste induced ecological hot spots in Ethiopia: where ecohydrologists should begin?

Abstract

The significance of solid waste management in ecohydrology research is obvious given the potential threat that solid waste poses on the intrinsic services of water purification, particularly in areas of high temperatures and precipitation levels. Improper waste disposal systems have adverse repercussions on environmental sanitation and impede water quality management efforts. The potential risk to water and soil pollution is surmountable in the areas where waste collection and disposal efforts are constrained. We used a GIS based meso-scale approach to identify solid waste ecological hot spots. Results indicate that solid waste hot spots are characterised by poor solid waste management, high temperatures, and high rainfall and are likely to compromise the ecohydrological processes of both surface and underground water systems. The most affected river basins are found in south and north-western parts of Ethiopia. Climate change is likely to worsen the situation in the areas where precipitation and temperature levels are expected to rise. We recommend that ecohydrologists prioritize such areas for improved water resource management.