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An Assessment of the Environmental and Social Impacts of Waste Management Practices in Omuthiya Town and Its Disposal Site, Oshikoto Region, Namibia
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This study examined waste management in Omuthiya Town, Namibia, using household surveys, interviews and observations. It found heavy reliance on plastic bags for waste disposal, along with open burning and illegal dumping, which contribute to pollution and health risks near the waste disposal site.
Rapid urbanization and population growth have intensified solid waste management challenges in many urban areas, particularly where infrastructure and institutional capacity are limited. This study assessed waste management practices and infrastructure in Omuthiya Town, Namibia, employed a case study research design and used mixed data collection methods. Quantitative data were collected through household surveys, while qualitative insights were obtained from interviews with local authority officials and residents as well as field observations. The findings indicate that although Omuthiya Town has made progress in waste collection services, major challenges remain. These include inadequate waste management infrastructure, low levels of waste separation and recycling, limited community participation, and weak regulatory enforcement. A heavy reliance on plastic bags for waste containment contributes to improper disposal and environmental pollution. Open waste burning, illegal dumping, and the absence of recycling facilities were identified as key drivers of environmental degradation and public health risks, particularly for communities living near the disposal site. The study highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure, stronger policy enforcement, and community-based education programs to promote sustainable waste management practices.
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This study examined open burning of plastic waste across four countries (India, Indonesia, Philippines, Zambia) using ethnographic fieldwork, finding this widespread practice persists despite existing laws due to inadequate alternatives. The authors propose a harm reduction approach targeting the most toxic plastics and packaging types to mitigate health risks where prohibition has proven ineffective.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.