- Nigeria’s Informal Waste Collectors Play Key Role in Recycling Economy
- Education, Gender, and Culture Shape Nigeria’s Waste Collection Practices
- Survey Highlights Factors Driving Nigeria’s Plastic Waste Collection Business
Plastic waste in Nigeria presents both environmental and economic challenges. Informal plastic bottle collectors play a crucial role in addressing these issues. Waste is transformed into economic value, supporting the nation’s recycling efforts.
Countries like India and Rwanda have implemented policies to manage plastic waste. India holds producers accountable, while Rwanda has banned single-use plastics and encouraged community-based recycling. These approaches show that plastic waste can be managed while creating economic benefits.
In Nigeria, a recent survey in Ogun State examined the factors influencing views on plastic waste collection as a business. Education, family size, religion, gender, and economic factors were found to be key influencers.
The study revealed that participants with higher education saw waste collection as a legitimate business, while those with lower education saw it as a means of survival. This suggests that education programs could promote waste collection as a profitable opportunity.Cultural and religious beliefs were also factors. Respondents from Islamic and African traditional backgrounds saw waste collection as consistent with teachings on resource management and communal responsibility.
Gender dynamics were evident, with men more likely to view waste collection as a business. Empowering women through microfinance could increase their participation and make the business more inclusive.These findings suggest that targeted policies could formalize waste collection, making it more stable and profitable while encouraging community collaboration.
