Polythene Waste Management andndash; Challenges and Opportunities in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the challenges and opportunities of managing polythene waste products (“pure water” sachets) in Port Harcourt city, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study also investigated the current waste management practices in the area. The findings of the study showed that more than 70,000,000 (70 million) ‘pure water’ sachets are generated monthly in Port Harcourt and environs. Twenty-five percent (25%) of respondents to questionnaires reuse polythene packages after the primary contents have been consumed; 75% of respondents do not reuse polythene packages. Among those who do not reuse the packages, 38% dump the packages into streets, gutters, rivers and other areas. It is suggested that recycling of polythene wastes is encouraged in the study area. By means of campaigns and other suasive instruments, the State Government should increase awareness of the environmental and health impacts of improper disposal of polythene waste packages. A deposit-refund scheme (DRS) is recommended as an appropriate potentially effective policy instrument for polythene waste recycling programme.