Behaviors that Shape Waste Management in Urban Kano.
By Mubarak Mansur
I still remember my teacher, Dr. Nazifi Umar, defining waste as "any unwanted material from its basic purpose" during my first year at university. This simple yet profound definition has stuck with me and influenced my perspective on waste management. Fast forward to today, and I'm compelled to explore the complexities of waste management in urban Kano.
Kano, a sprawling metropolis with millions of inhabitants, faces significant waste management challenges. Rapid urbanization and population growth have led to an influx of people, resulting in the expansion of the city beyond its original boundaries. Unfortunately, this growth has also led to an increase in waste generation, poor waste disposal practices, and inadequate waste management infrastructure.
Cultural understanding plays a crucial role in shaping waste management practices in urban Kano. For instance, the lack of environmental orientation among residents contributes to improper waste disposal. Additionally, the scarcity of waste deposition sites forces residents to dispose of waste in unauthorized areas, such as drainages and streets.
Poor governmental concern and inadequate funding exacerbate the waste management challenges in Kano. The Refuse Management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB), Is responsible for waste management in Kano state, faces significant funding constraints. This limitation hinders the board's ability to effectively manage waste, leading to the accumulation of waste in public spaces.
*Waste Generation and Deposition in Urban Kano*
Households generate waste daily, primarily in the form of plastic sachets and used materials. However, many houses, especially in unplanned areas, lack designated waste deposition sites, leading to improper waste disposal. Drainages and streets become makeshift waste deposition sites, causing environmental pollution and health hazards.
Industries also contribute to waste generation, producing toxic waste harmful to humans and animals.
The encroachment of residential areas into industrial zones exacerbates the problem, as residents are exposed to hazardous waste.
Inadequate drainage system in Kano city worsens the waste management situation. During the rainy season, waste deposited in drainages is washed onto the streets, causing flooding and further environmental degradation.
Individuals also play a significant role in shaping waste management practices in urban Kano. The "eat and throw" culture, prevalent among residents, contributes to the accumulation of waste in public spaces. Environmental training and education can help in changing this behavior, promoting proper waste disposal practices and recycling.
*Waste Evacuation in Urban Kano*
REMASAB employs two primary methods for waste evacuation: monthly sanitation exercises and daily waste collection. However, the board's efforts are hindered by inadequate funding and resources.
*Waste to Wealth*
In recent years, companies in Kano have begun to recognize the potential of waste as a valuable resource. These companies collect waste and convert it into useful products, such as recycled plastics. This approach not only reduces waste but also generates income and creates job opportunities.
*Solutions and Recommendations*
To address the waste management challenges in urban Kano, I personally recommend the following:
1-Environmental orientation and public enlightenment programs to educate residents on proper waste disposal practices.
2-Reinstating waste pots in every street to encourage proper waste deposition.
3-Collaboration between stakeholders, including residents, REMASAB, and private companies, to address waste management challenges.
4-Increased funding and resources for REMASAB to enhance its waste management capabilities.
By implementing these solutions, we can mitigate the waste management challenges in urban Kano and create a cleaner, healthier environment for residents.
Mubarak is a 300 level student of Bsc. Geography from Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano.