Municipal waste management in developing countries

Abstract

Waste is a global issue and if not properly handled, it poses a threat to the environment and public health. Waste is generally linked to the way society produces and consumes and should be of concern to everyone. Waste is one of the biggest challenges society is grappling with in the 21st century, especially urban centers. As such waste management is a necessity for humans. The aim of this thesis is to study waste management and the challenges it poses to developing countries. The thesis discussed solid waste management, sanitation, and provision of food, energy, transport and potable water which is beneficial to the society. The thesis addresses the consequences of doing nothing and the cost of managing waste. It examines what has been done to solve the waste challenges in Lagos, Nigeria. Lagos state, Nigeria as one of the most populated cities in Africa, with huge tonnes of organic waste. Hence, it is very important and ethical to have a comprehensive waste management strategy. Due to lack of equipment, adequate funding, and the sector has been plagued with inefficiency.