Characterization Of Municipal Solid Waste And Evaluation Of Dumpsite Acceptability In Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Increase in Population, rapid urbanization and changing in consumption patterns in Ado-Ekiti have significantly increased the amount and complexity of municipal solid waste generated in the town. This study examines the composition of the solid waste generated, and evaluates the level of societal acceptance of the Ilokun waste dumpsite in Ado-Ekiti. Respondents were sampled strategically based on the three residential stratifications of Ado-Ekiti. A total of 110 structured questionnaires were administered across the identified strata, comprising low-, middle- and high income earners within the study area. Waste were collected and characterized using standard sorting techniques and gravimetric methods. Parameters such as public acceptance, size of the house hold, waste composition, waste generation, disposal methods, population estimate and biodegradable fractions were determined. The results from the field survey revealed a predominance of organic waste, indicating high biodegradable wastes. The results obtained from the Questionnaire analysis showed that 67.3% of the dwellers (74 out of 110) supports rehabilitation of the dumpsite. This is an indication that the dumpsite should be environmental friendly. The waste deposited at Ilokun dumpsite is made up of 18.6% Food and other putrescible waste; 18.2% Plastic, nylon, rubber and polythenes; 7.5% Metal and aluminum; 13.8% Broken bottles and glass; 9.0% Wooden Materials; 14.8% Rags and Textile materials; 6.6% Ash and Soil Fines; 11.5% Paper and cardboard. The low percentage of Ash is as a result of non-regular Bunning of waste due to smoke emission.