AN ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF SUSTAINABLE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Urban cities, particularly in developing nations, are facing significant hurdles in implementing sustainable solid waste management. In poor nations such as Cameroon, the government and waste management agencies face significant obstacles in effectively implementing sustainable waste management practices (Nnamdi et al., 2018). Undoubtedly, solid waste management in poor nations is marked by ineffective collection techniques, unsuitable disposal practices, and insufficient transportation systems for solid garbage. Additional factors that hinder effective waste management include the absence of waste reduction technology at the source, failure to recycle waste, lack of repair and reuse of waste, legislative obstacles, insufficient waste disposal vehicles, and inadequate urban planning in the face of population growth and urbanization. These factors collectively contribute to the accumulation of waste on the streets, posing serious threats to environmental sustainability and economic progress (Ogwu, 2023). 

Municipal Solid trash Management (MSWM) is the comprehensive process of gathering, transporting, processing, reusing, recovering valuable materials, and appropriately disposing of solid trash in metropolitan regions (Akanimoh, 2022). The primary objective of MSWM is to safeguard the well-being of the urban populace, specifically those belonging to low-income demographics who are disproportionately affected by inadequate waste management. Furthermore, the primary objective of MSWM is to enhance the well-being of the environment by effectively managing and mitigating pollution, such as water, air, soil, and cross-media pollution, while also ensuring the long-term viability of the urban ecosystem. Furthermore, MSWM facilitates urban economic growth by delivering waste management services and guaranteeing the effective utilization and preservation of valuable materials and resources. Ultimately, the primary objective of MSWM is to provide job opportunities and produce revenue within the sector.

Waste management is a category that can be explored to create a sustainable economy and environment. Some manufacturers produce items that contain rare elements like Rare Earth Elements (REEs) or materials that are not easily biodegradable, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Efficient waste management is a crucial component (Zhou et al., 2021). Various studies have shown that implementing effective waste management systems can lead to economic advantages. These benefits extend beyond just financial gains and encompass job creation and reduced environmental costs resulting from inappropriate garbage management (Razzaq et al., 2021).

An effective method to sustainable solid waste management involves considering the complete life cycle of material usage, encompassing production, distribution, consumption, waste collection, and disposal (Theophilus et al., 2021). While it is crucial to prioritize efficient garbage collection and disposal, it is equally necessary to focus on waste reduction during production and recycling as long-term goals. The core concepts of sustainable solid waste management system strategies are to minimize waste generation, maximize waste value through recycling, repair, and reuse, and ensure safe and ecologically responsible trash disposal (Sammy, 2019). The success of sustainable solid waste management relies on the overall efficacy and efficiency of municipal governance and the capabilities of relevant authorities. The economic efficiency of trash collection and disposal services is determined by the life-cycle costs of facilities, equipment, and services, as well as the long-term economic consequences of the waste management system. The economic consequences encompass various elements, including the mitigation of illness and healthcare expenses, improvement of environmental quality and property values, reduction of disruptions, and augmentation of company volumes (Andrew et al., 2022).

The World Bank Urban Development department report predicts that the quantity of municipal solid waste (MSW) will increase from the current 1.3 billion tons per year to 2.2 billion tons per year by 2025. A significant portion of the growth will occur in rapidly expanding urban areas within developing nations. Global trash creation is projected to increase by 70% over the next 30 years due to continuous rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic development (World Bank, 2020). Plastics pose a highly intricate and difficult problem. Despite the collection of plastic garbage, numerous countries struggle to effectively treat the waste, resulting in either dumping or mismanagement. Inadequately managed waste, including both uncollected garbage and improperly disposed waste, can have substantial health and environmental consequences (Lu et al., 2020; Shadi, 2020; Marion et al., 2018). The expense associated with mitigating these effects is frequently more than that of constructing and maintaining basic, sufficient waste treatment systems. 

The global trash statistics reveal that the United States is the primary generator of municipal solid waste worldwide, accounting for 12% of global municipal waste while comprising only 4% of the global population. India and China account for 27% of the world's trash and have a combined population of 36% of the global population, according to the World Bank (2019). The waste management framework in the US is strongly authorized by the "Resource Conservation and Recovery Act" enacted in 1976. This legislation is designed to ensure the sustainable management of garbage collection and disposal. Promoting trash reduction and recycling across organizations, sectors, and communities is crucial for achieving sustainable consumption patterns by 2030 (Mehrad et al., 2021).

An essential factor in achieving economic and environmental sustainability is the optimal utilization of resources by means of recycling materials. Waste possesses a valuable resource potential in the long term. Implementing improved recycling methods would be a more cost-effective approach than having to rectify the environmental and human health consequences resulting from present improper waste management practices (Richard, Mario, Javier, et al., 2021). Local manufacturing enterprises in Malaysia have a high level of material recycling use, primarily driven by cost-saving considerations. In addition to recycling their own resources, manufacturing businesses engage external recycling organizations to process their products into flake forms (Wahab, Abidin & Azhari, 2017). Within the electronic business, manufacturers will consistently prioritize recycling, provided that the associated costs remain relatively low. Remanufactured products and new products from the original makers are in direct competition in the market. Advancements in repair technologies consistently result in remanufactured products having a lower value compared to new ones (Nengmin Wang, Qidong He, Bin Jiang, 2019). If a remanufactured product is of same quality to a new product, consumers can confidently acquire it in the market. Consumers would prefer environmentally conscious companies as they desire to preserve and uphold the environment. In order to retain their consumer base and remain competitive in their sector, manufacturing companies must adopt environmentally sustainable practices. 

The potential economic advantages of SSWM are substantial. Effective waste management can save public health expenses by mitigating the transmission of diseases linked to inadequate sanitation and environmental contamination (Kum, Sharp, & Harnpornchai, 2019). In addition, the recycling and waste-to-energy industries have the potential to offer fresh economic prospects by establishing employment opportunities and producing cash for local communities (Zeng, Trauth, & Chen, 2020). In Cameroon, where the problem of unemployment and underemployment persists, the establishment of a strong SSWM (Sustainable Sanitation and Water Management) sector has the potential to help reduce poverty and stimulate economic growth. However, the use of SSWM in Cameroon encounters various challenges. The factors contributing to the issue are: a lack of public knowledge, inadequate regulatory systems, insufficient financial resources, and a scarcity of technical proficiency (Ndongko, 2020). Moreover, the lack of formality in a significant portion of the waste management industry, especially in urban regions, hinders the implementation of sustainable methods. Informal waste pickers and recyclers are essential contributors to waste management, although they frequently work in perilous environments without legal acknowledgement or assistance (Medina, 2017). The objective of this study is to examine the influence of sustainable solid waste management on the economic progress of Cameroon. This research aims to analyze the economic, social, and environmental aspects of SSWM in order to emphasize its potential to promote the country's economic growth while addressing the obstacles that impede its implementation.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon, similar to several emerging nations, encounters substantial obstacles in the management of solid waste as a result of swift urbanisation, population expansion, and industrial development. The insufficient handling of solid waste not only presents significant environmental and public health hazards but also impedes economic progress (Nguefack et al., 2021). The waste management procedures now employed in Cameroon are predominantly unsustainable. These practices are marked by inadequate garbage collection coverage, poor transportation systems, and the indiscriminate dumping of waste, typically in open dumpsites (Mwesigye et al., 2019). These activities result in the deterioration of the environment, aid in the transmission of diseases, and impose financial obligations on both the government and local populations.

The informal sector has a notable impact on waste management in Cameroon, specifically in metropolitan regions where informal workers frequently conduct rubbish collection and recycling. The informal sector plays a role in garbage recovery and recycling, but it faces challenging conditions and lacks sufficient assistance or recognition from formal institutions (Medina, 2017). This not only hampers the effectiveness and long-term viability of waste management procedures but also falls short in fully exploiting the economic opportunities offered by SSWM.

Adopting sustainable solid waste management (SSWM) is crucial for addressing these concerns. SSWM prioritises waste minimisation, recycling, and the proper management of remaining trash, resulting in less environmental contamination and public health hazards. Additionally, this approach fosters economic prospects by promoting the recovery of valuable resources and generating employment opportunities (Wilson & Cheeseman, 2018). Nevertheless, in Cameroon, the potential economic advantages of SSWM are not fully utilised due to several barriers, such as inadequate legal frameworks, insufficient finance, low public awareness, and poor technical skills (Ndongko, 2019).

The current policies and infrastructure for waste management in Cameroon sometimes lack the necessary capacity to effectively handle the increasing garbage quantities and ensure long-term sustainability. Studies suggest that the nation faces challenges in terms of antiquated waste management methods, a lack of public knowledge, and inadequate funding for waste management infrastructure (Njokua & Nsoh, 2020). This situation obstructs the possible economic benefits of sustainable waste management procedures and causes obstacles to efficient economic growth.

Considering these difficulties, it is crucial to evaluate the influence of sustainable solid waste management on the economic progress of Cameroon. This study aims to fill this need by investigating the ways in which SSWM might enhance economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and reduce poverty, all while supporting environmental sustainability. 

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically analyze the impact of sustainable solid waste management on economic development in Cameroon. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To find out whether there is a relationship between sustainable solid waste management and economic development in Cameroon

To examine the impact of sustainable solid waste management on job creation in Cameroon

To assess the impact of sustainable solid waste management on income generation in Cameroon

To identify the barriers to implementing sustainable solid waste management in Cameroon.

To propose strategies for enhancing the impact of sustainable solid waste management on economic development

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What is the relationship between sustainable solid waste management and economic development in Cameroon?

What is the impact of sustainable solid waste management on job creation in Cameroon?

What is the impact of sustainable solid waste management on income generation in Cameroon?

What are the barriers to implementing sustainable solid waste management in Cameroon?

What are the strategies for enhancing the impact of sustainable solid waste management on economic development?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

To determine the effectiveness of this study, the following research null hypotheses will be formulated to guide the study and it will be tested at 0.05% levels of significance.:

Ho: There is no significant relationship between sustainable solid waste management and economic development in Cameroon.

Ha: There is significant relationship between sustainable solid waste management and economic development in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the study

The study's importance rests in its capacity to augment comprehension of how sustainable solid waste management methods can stimulate economic development, increase public health, and contribute to environmental sustainability. The report offers a complete framework for promoting sustainable development in Cameroon and other places by addressing the economic, policy, and infrastructural aspects of waste management.

Implementing sustainable waste management methods has the potential to create job opportunities in recycling, waste processing, and other related sectors. The study can demonstrate the correlation between waste management efficiency and its positive effects on job creation and economic growth through economic impact analysis. Adopting sustainable methods improves the ability to recover and recycle resources, resulting in cost savings and the creation of new markets for recovered products. This process enhances economic growth by generating value from waste materials.

In addition, efficient waste management mitigates environmental degradation and minimizes public health hazards, hence reducing healthcare expenses linked to illnesses caused by trash. Gaining insight into these effects can bolster the argument for allocating resources towards sustainable waste management as a strategy to decrease public health costs. The study highlights the significance of incorporating sustainability into trash management procedures. Gaining insight into the economic consequences of these activities contributes to the overarching objective of environmental sustainability and resilience, which is crucial for achieving sustainable development.

Furthermore, the study offers significant information regarding the efficacy of existing policies and infrastructure. This information is vital for policymakers to formulate more efficient waste management policies and plans that are in line with economic and environmental objectives. The study aims to promote greater investment in waste management infrastructure by highlighting the economic advantages of sustainable waste management. This investment is crucial for fostering sustainable economic growth in the long run.

In addition, the study will reveal obstacles to the implementation of sustainable waste management, including financial limitations, insufficient public knowledge, and obsolete technology. Tackling these obstacles can result in enhanced solutions and tactics. The study can enhance public awareness and garner support for sustainable trash management by emphasizing its economic advantages. Enhanced consciousness can result in heightened community engagement and adherence to waste management initiatives.

Moreover, the results of the study can be used as a basis for future research and pilot projects that aim to investigate novel waste management methods and their economic effects. This will help in the creation of efficient and sustainable waste management strategies.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically analyze the Impact of Sustainable Solid Waste Management on Economic Development in Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to find out whether there is a relationship between sustainable solid waste management and economic development in Cameroon, examine the impact of sustainable solid waste management on job creation in Cameroon and assess the impact of sustainable solid waste management on income generation in Cameroon. 

Further, this study will focus on identifying the barriers to implementing sustainable solid waste management in Cameroon and it also seeks to propose strategies for enhancing the impact of sustainable solid waste management on economic development.

 The study is carried out in Cameroon. 

1.8 Limitations of the study

During the analysis, the researchers noted certain modest constraints that are inherent to all human activities. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, which resulted from the scarcity of data on an evaluation of Occupational Health and Safety among Solid Waste Workers in Cameroon. Therefore, a significant allocation of time and exertion was necessary to determine the appropriate materials, books, or information and gather data. 

Furthermore, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographic scope, primarily focusing on Cameroon. Therefore, the generalizability of the findings from this study is restricted, highlighting the need for more research. 

Moreover, the researcher's limitations were primarily ascribed to financial constraints, as they are a student who lacks the requisite financial means to sustain themselves. The exorbitant transportation fees at the study site posed a challenge in meeting the financial obligations related to transportation expenses.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to conduct this study while simultaneously fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and participating in other educational pursuits.

1.9 Definition of terms

Solid waste: solid waste" means any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities.

Solid waste management: The term solid waste management mainly refers to the complete process of collecting, treating and disposing of solid wastes. In the waste management process, the wastes are collected from different sources and are disposed of. This process includes collection, transportation, treatment, analysis and disposal of waste.