Socioeconomic impacts of dynamics in municipal solid waste dumping at a landfill

Abstract

Municipal solid waste generation has become a pressing issue worldwide. Globally, developed nations often have advanced waste management systems that include waste segregation, recycling, and energy recovery from waste. However, in low-income and middle-income countries, like those in Africa, these systems are often lacking, leading to more traditional dumping methods. The mismanagement of this waste poses significant environmental threats, such as air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil contamination The study focused on assessing the socioeconomic impacts of dynamics in municipal solid waste dumping at a Landfill: Case of Kiteezi, Nangabo Subcounty Wakiso. The main objective was to assess socioeconomic impacts of dynamic in Municipal solid waste Dumping at a Landfill. The specific objectives were to establish common health issues among residents in the surroundings of kiteezi land fill due to increased activities at the site, to document the economic effects of increased SWM activities at Kiteezi land fill site on the livelihoods among its surrounding residents, and to identify potential solutions to mitigate the negative impacts due to increased dumping at kiteezi land fill site. 52 households were randomly interviewed and primary data was collected using electronic questionnaire, interview and field observation. The study revealed that people experience respiratory problems (coughing and asthma), stench, gastrointestinal problems, skin infections and vector borne diseases. The study also revealed that landfill provides employment through informal waste picking and recycling and these jobs are characterized by poor conditions, inconsistent income, and exploitation.