Recycling of Polythene Bag Waste as a Sustainable Strategy for Enhancing Environmental Health: Evidence from Northern Nigeria

Abstract Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century, particularly in developing countries where waste management infrastructure remains inadequate. Polythene bags constitute a significant proportion of municipal solid waste due to their widespread use, low cost, and resistance to biodegradation. This study evaluates the recycling of polythene bag waste as a sustainable strategy for improving environmental health, using Adamawa State, Nigeria as a case study. The study adopted an experimental and field-based research design involving waste characterization, mechanical recycling, laboratory testing, and environmental impact assessment. Polythene waste was collected from markets, households, drainage systems, and dumpsites. The waste was processed through sorting, washing, shredding, melting, and composite blending with sand to produce pavement tiles. Laboratory analysis evaluated compressive strength, density, water absorption, and durability properties. Results showed that recycled polythene composite tiles exhibited compressive strength ranging from 18.4–26.7 MPa, water absorption between 0.32–0.81%, and improved durability compared to conventional concrete tiles used in low-load applications. Environmental impact analysis indicated that recycling one tonne of polythene waste could reduce landfill burden by 0.85 m³, prevent approximately 2.7 tonnes CO₂ equivalent emissions, and significantly reduce drainage blockage associated with vector-borne diseases. The study further demonstrates that plastic recycling contributes to environmental sustainability by supporting circular economy principles, reducing pollution exposure, and promoting resource efficiency. Economic assessment also indicates potential employment opportunities in waste collection and recycling enterprises. The study concludes that polythene recycling represents a viable environmental health intervention capable of improving sanitation, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable development. The study recommends policy integration of plastic recycling programs, establishment of decentralized recycling hubs, strengthening extended producer responsibility regulations, and environmental education programs. Keywords: Plastic recycling, Environmental health, Polythene waste, Circular economy, Sustainable development, Nigeria, Waste management