An Assessment of waste management challenges and prospects in high density surburbs, Zimbabwe: a case study of Budiriro 1, Harare · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Maposa, Tatenda

Title

An Assessment of waste management challenges and prospects in high density surburbs, Zimbabwe: a case study of Budiriro 1, Harare

Abstract

This study's objective was to characterize waste produced in Budiriro 1, gauge community knowledge of waste management, and identify household waste management strategies and challenges in Zimbabwe's high-density suburb of Budiriro 1. Waste management in high-density areas poses unique challenges due to the complex interplay of factors such as population density, limited space for infrastructure, diverse waste composition, and socio-economic disparities. The methodology employed a combination of approaches to gather data in both quantitative and qualitative formats. A survey questionnaire, an examination of the waste's composition, and interviews with major participants including residents, the Local Council, and the EMA were all used in the study. Analyses of the data showed that ablution, plastics and organic waste made up the majority of the waste produced in Budiriro 1. The practices used to manage waste were composting, burning, burying, and dumping on open space, selling waste and recyling. Determined to be insufficient, and the lack of proper infrastructure for waste collection and disposal resulted in widespread burning and dumping of waste. One of the study's main conclusions was that there was a glaring lack of infrastructure for waste collection and disposal, inadequate waste segregation practices, and insufficient waste management strategies by local authorities and residents. The lack of public participation and understanding in handling waste was another important concern, the survey found. This was due to lack of education and awareness to the residents about waste management and consistent collection of waste in suburb.The study concludes by emphasizing the pressing necessity for local authorities to enhance the waste management practices in Budiriro 1. The study urges the construction of sufficient facilities for waste collection and disposal. The study suggests that in order to accomplish sustainable waste management in Budiriro 1 and other high-density areas in Zimbabwe, there is a need for public education and involvement in waste management activities. The residents of Budiriro 1 and the neighbouring areas will live in a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment thanks to improved waste management actions.

Date

2023

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Waste management

High density surburbs

Budiriro 1

Supervisor

Mrs. Masona