Per Capita Solid Waste Generation and Characterization in Makurdi Metropolis, Nigeria

Authors : Oloche Ekwule, Emmanuel Okechukwu, Martins Ufedo

Pages : 33-40

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Publication Date : 2020-06-25

Article Type : Research

Abstract :This study is aimed at ascertaining the per capita generation and characterization of waste in Makurdi metropolis. The study population consisted of all the residents in the households of the selected study areas. Sample sizes of 60 households were selected purposively from three (3) residential areas in Makurdi metropolis which includes Wadata (low income areas), High Level (medium income areas), and Judges Quarters (high income areas). Field observations, secondary data and key informant interviews were also used. Simple random sampling and analysis of solid waste from specific sources (Households) was used for waste characterization whereas house-to-house weight analysis method was used to quantify the waste. The solid waste generation rate in the areas which the survey was conducted revealed that a total sample waste load of 1185.95 Kg was weighed for the three areas. From the analysis of the primary data gathered on the samples of solid waste generated, the order of waste generated is as follows; organic waste (81.30 %) ˃ ash/sand (5.86 %) ˃ Paper (2.78 %) ˃ Metal/Tin (2.03 %) ˃ Bag/Shoes (1.84 %) ˃ Leather (1.74 %) ˃ textiles (1.47 %) ˃ Plastic (1.24 %) ˃ glass/ceramics (0.41 %). The average per capita generation rate was also estimated to be 0.45 kg/ capita/ day with an average house hold size of 6 persons.
Keywords : Solid waste, per capita waste generation, Characterization, Makurdi