APPRAISAL OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL METHODS AND PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION IN LAGOS STATE

Abstract

The paper examines solid waste disposal methods and private sector intervention in waste management in a deregulated economy with a specific reference to Lagos State. The study reveals that of about 6000 metric tons of solid wastes generated daily, the average quantity of waste disposed through conventional methods is about 35%. The study observes that minimal emphasis was placed on waste prevention and treatment through minimization while recycling and re-use treatment methods received less than 2% attention. The private sector intervention accounts for only 28% of the waste produced in most of the twenty (20) local government areas assessed, while about 95% of solid wastes generated are improperly disposed. The paper suggests that, private driven enterprise based on local community participation, citizenry re-orientation and general classification of wastes generated at households, markets and industrial settings should be the hallmark of waste management practices while the government should only provide the enabling environment for the operators. This study concludes that operators in the private sector initiatives should be selected based on capacities and wherewithal to manage the and not on political and sundry considerations.