Impact of Waste Disposal Practices on Environmental Quality in Calabar Metropolis

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Waste management has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges in urban areas around the world. The way waste is generated, handled, and disposed of significantly affects the health of both humans and the environment. Improper waste disposal leads to soil and water pollution, air contamination, and the spread of diseases (World Health Organization, 2020). In developing countries like Nigeria, the problem is worsened by rapid urbanization, population growth, and inadequate waste management infrastructure.

Calabar Metropolis, the capital of Cross River State, is known for its tourism potential and relatively organized urban environment. However, in recent years, poor waste management practices have become a growing concern. The increasing population, expansion of residential areas, and commercial activities have resulted in higher waste generation rates. Unfortunately, many residents still dispose of waste indiscriminately, blocking drainage systems and polluting waterways (Ekwueme & Inyang, 2021). This situation threatens the environmental quality and aesthetic appeal of the city.

1.1 Background to the Study

Solid waste disposal is a major environmental problem in most Nigerian cities. It includes the collection, transportation, and dumping of refuse from homes, markets, and industries. When not properly managed, waste accumulates in open spaces, roadsides, and drainages, leading to environmental degradation. The major types of waste generated in urban areas include plastics, food remnants, metals, paper, and electronic materials (Ogunleye et al., 2019).

In Calabar Metropolis, waste is often disposed of in open dumps, water bodies, or unauthorized sites. While the Cross River State Waste Management Agency (CRSWMA) has made efforts to maintain cleanliness through regular collection, challenges such as inadequate trucks, poor public attitude, and irregular payment for waste collection have hindered progress. The result is the proliferation of illegal dumpsites and increased pollution of air, land, and water resources. Understanding the relationship between waste disposal practices and environmental quality in Calabar is therefore essential for sustainable waste management.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the efforts of the government and private waste management companies, improper waste disposal continues to affect environmental quality in Calabar. The accumulation of solid waste in open areas leads to foul odours, blocked drainage channels, and flooding during the rainy season. In addition, the burning of refuse releases harmful gases that contribute to air pollution and respiratory illnesses. Contaminants from waste dumps also seep into groundwater, affecting its quality and posing health risks to residents.
Although several studies have addressed waste management in Nigeria, limited research has specifically examined how local disposal practices affect environmental quality in Calabar Metropolis. This study therefore seeks to fill this gap by assessing waste disposal methods and their impacts on air, water, and soil quality.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of waste disposal practices on environmental quality in Calabar Metropolis.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Identify the common waste disposal methods used by residents of Calabar.

2. Evaluate the effects of these disposal practices on air, water, and soil quality.

3. Examine the role of government and private agencies in waste management.

4. Suggest practical solutions for improving waste disposal and maintaining environmental quality.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the major waste disposal practices in Calabar Metropolis?

2. How do these practices affect the quality of the environment?

3. What challenges hinder effective waste management in the city?

4. What measures can improve waste disposal and protect environmental health?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This research is important because it provides insights into how improper waste disposal affects environmental quality in Calabar. The findings will be useful to environmental agencies, urban planners, and policymakers in designing better waste management strategies. It will also raise public awareness about the importance of proper waste handling for a cleaner and healthier city. Academically, the study contributes to environmental geography and sustainable development literature in Nigeria.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is focused on Calabar Metropolis, which includes areas such as Calabar South, Calabar Municipality, and parts of Akpabuyo. It examines household and commercial waste disposal practices and their environmental implications. The study does not focus on industrial waste management or hazardous waste due to limited data availability. Temporal coverage spans from 2010 to 2025, reflecting changes over time in waste generation and disposal practices.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

• Waste Disposal: The process of collecting, transporting, and getting rid of unwanted materials produced by human activities.

• Environmental Quality: The state of the physical environment in relation to air, water, and land conditions that affect human health and well-being.

• Solid Waste: Non-liquid materials discarded from households, commercial establishments, and industries.

• Open Dumping: The act of disposing of waste in open land areas without environmental control measures.

• Waste Management: The systematic process of handling waste materials to reduce their negative effects on the environment.

References
Ekwueme, V. O., & Inyang, E. J. (2021). Urban waste management challenges in Cross River State, Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Environmental Studies, 16(2), 82–95.
Ogunleye, T. O., Okoro, M. A., & Ibe, F. C. (2019). Solid waste disposal practices and environmental health in Nigerian cities. African Journal of Geography and Environment, 8(1), 45–60.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Solid waste management and public health in developing countries. Geneva: WHO Press.