Evaluation of Municipal Solid Waste Composting as a Sustainable Waste Management Strategy in Jos, Plateau State

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Waste management remains a significant environmental challenge in many Nigerian cities. The rapid growth of urban populations and the expansion of economic activities have increased the amount of solid waste generated daily. Unfortunately, most waste disposal systems in Nigeria rely heavily on open dumping, which causes pollution, unpleasant odors, and public health risks. An effective solution to this problem is the adoption of sustainable waste management methods, such as composting, which transforms organic waste into useful soil amendments.

Composting reduces the volume of waste sent to dumpsites and provides an affordable source of organic fertilizer for farmers. It also supports environmental sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and improving soil health. In Jos, Plateau State, municipal solid waste continues to accumulate because of inefficient collection systems and poor disposal practices. Evaluating composting as a waste management strategy can reveal how the city can convert its waste problem into an environmental and economic opportunity.

1.1 Background to the Study

Municipal solid waste (MSW) consists of household refuse, market waste, street sweepings, and other non-industrial wastes produced in urban areas. According to Adewumi et al. (2021), Nigeria generates over 32 million tonnes of solid waste each year, but less than 30% of it is properly managed. The majority of this waste ends up in open dumps or drainage channels, leading to flooding, land degradation, and air pollution.

Jos, like many Nigerian cities, faces serious waste management problems. The city’s population growth and urbanization have increased waste generation without a corresponding improvement in waste disposal infrastructure. Most waste is collected irregularly and dumped in sites such as Bukuru and Angwan Rogo, where it causes environmental hazards. Since a large portion of this waste is organic, composting offers a practical and eco-friendly way to manage it (Okafor & Danjuma, 2020).

Composting is a biological process that converts organic waste into a nutrient-rich material called compost. The process enhances soil fertility, improves water retention, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Therefore, exploring the feasibility of municipal solid waste composting in Jos could help promote sustainable waste management and agricultural productivity.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The management of municipal solid waste in Jos has become increasingly difficult. Open dumpsites and irregular waste collection expose residents to environmental and health risks. Decomposing waste releases foul odors and greenhouse gases, while leachates contaminate nearby water bodies. Despite these challenges, the potential of composting as a sustainable waste management method remains largely untapped.

Previous waste management strategies in Jos focused mainly on disposal rather than recycling or resource recovery. Consequently, valuable organic materials are wasted instead of being converted into compost that can enrich the soil. The lack of awareness, limited technical capacity, and insufficient policy support have hindered the adoption of composting practices. This study, therefore, aims to evaluate municipal solid waste composting as a sustainable management strategy in Jos, Plateau State.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to evaluate municipal solid waste composting as a sustainable waste management strategy in Jos, Plateau State.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Identify the major sources and composition of municipal solid waste in Jos.

2. Examine the potential of composting in managing organic waste.

3. Assess the benefits and challenges of composting practices in the study area.

4. Recommend strategies to promote sustainable waste composting in Jos.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the main sources and composition of municipal solid waste in Jos?

2. How effective is composting in managing organic waste?

3. What benefits and challenges affect composting practices in Jos?

4. Which strategies can enhance the adoption of composting in waste management?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study contributes to environmental sustainability by promoting an alternative approach to waste management. It provides insights that will help local authorities, environmental agencies, and residents understand the importance of composting. The results can guide the Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) in improving waste management policies and reducing dependence on open dumpsites.

Additionally, composting supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities, and SDG 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production. Farmers in Jos and nearby communities can also benefit from the production of organic compost, which improves soil fertility and reduces the use of chemical fertilizers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on selected areas within Jos metropolis, including Bukuru, Angwan Rogo, and Tudun Wada. It assesses the types and quantities of municipal solid waste generated, evaluates composting potential, and identifies challenges affecting implementation. The research does not include hazardous or industrial waste, as it focuses only on biodegradable municipal waste.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

• Municipal Solid Waste (MSW): Waste materials generated from households, markets, and streets in urban areas.

• Composting: The biological decomposition of organic waste under controlled conditions to produce compost.

• Sustainable Waste Management: Practices that reduce waste generation, promote recycling, and minimize environmental impact.

• Organic Waste: Biodegradable materials from plants, food, and other natural sources.

• Compost: A nutrient-rich organic material produced through composting, used to improve soil quality.

References

Adewumi, I. A., Ojo, T. O., & Akpan, C. N. (2021). Municipal solid waste management in Nigeria: Challenges and prospects. Journal of Environmental Management, 18(3), 76–88.
Okafor, P. U., & Danjuma, A. S. (2020). Potential of composting for sustainable waste management in urban Nigeria. International Journal of Environmental Research, 22(2), 55–68.
Yakubu, B. M., & Ibrahim, A. D. (2022). Assessment of municipal waste generation and composting in Jos, Plateau State. African Journal of Environmental Studies, 17(1), 90–102.