We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Environmental and human health risks of indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste and sachet water bags in Maiduguri, Borno State Nigeria
AI summary Read the abstract
This study examines the environmental and health impacts of improperly discarded plastic bottles and water sachets in Maiduguri, Nigeria. The research found that accumulated plastic waste blocks drainage systems causing flooding, contaminates soil and water, and creates breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, highlighting how plastic pollution directly threatens public health in developing communities.
The indiscriminate disposal of plastic bottles and sachet water bags has emerged as a significant environmental and human health concern in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. This study aims to assess the environmental impact and potential health risks associated with the improper disposal of these plastic waste products. The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collection through interviews, focus group discussion and questionnaires. Preliminary findings indicate that the indiscriminate disposal of plastic bottles and sachet water bags has led to the accumulation of plastic waste in open spaces, drainage systems, and water bodies. This has resulted in environmental degradation, including clogged drainage systems, increased flood risks, and reduced aesthetic appeal of the city. Moreover, the presence of plastic waste in water bodies has led to the contamination of water sources by microplastics and other pollutants, which pose a potential risk to human health. These pollutants can enter the food chain through ingestion by aquatic organisms, ultimately affecting human health through the consumption of contaminated water and seafood. The study also explores the socio-economic factors contributing to the indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, such as inadequate waste management infrastructure, lack of awareness, and limited recycling facilities. Additionally, it identifies potential strategies to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with plastic waste, including public awareness campaigns, improved waste management systems, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging.
More Papers Like This
Environmental and Public Health Impacts of Polythene Waste Disposal in Maisandari Ward, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers conducted a cross-sectional assessment of polythene waste in a Nigerian urban ward, finding that poor disposal infrastructure combined with low public awareness of health risks is accelerating plastic accumulation in drainage channels, soils, and waterways across the community.
Health and environmental impacts of sachet water consumption and sachet plastic waste in Nigeria: a scoping review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review of 20 studies found that "sachet water" — cheap bagged drinking water widely used in Nigeria — is often contaminated with harmful bacteria, heavy metals, and chemicals like phthalates, sometimes at levels exceeding WHO safety limits, especially when exposed to heat and sunlight. Beyond health risks from drinking it, the plastic sachets themselves create major environmental problems, contributing to flooding, clogged drains, and microplastic pollution. The findings suggest that a water source millions rely on for safety may actually pose real health risks, highlighting the need for better regulation and waste management
Health and Environmental Hazard of Plastic Waste in The Communities of Niger Delta
AI summary Read the abstract
This study investigated plastic waste health impacts in Niger Delta communities by analyzing water, fish, sediment, and human blood samples for physico-chemical parameters and contaminants. Microplastics and associated chemical pollutants were detected, highlighting risks to residents in areas with poor waste management infrastructure.
Plastic Pollution in the Environment in Nigeria: A Rapid Systematic Review of the Sources, Distribution, Research Gaps and Policy Needs
AI summary Read the abstract
This systematic review examines plastic pollution across Nigeria's environment, including water, soil, air, and food. The research finds that plastic contamination is widespread but under-studied in African countries, with significant gaps in data and policy. Understanding plastic pollution in developing nations is critical because these regions often lack the waste management infrastructure to prevent microplastic contamination of food and water.
Plastic Pollution and Framework Towards Sustainable Plastic Waste Management in Nigeria: Case Study
AI summary Read the abstract
Nigeria faces a growing plastic pollution crisis driven by the rapid expansion of companies producing plastic bottles and sachet water packaging. This paper examines the scale of the problem and proposes a framework for more sustainable plastic waste management, drawing on case studies of existing challenges and potential interventions. While focused on policy and waste management rather than microplastics specifically, reducing plastic waste at source directly limits the amount that fragments into environmental microplastics.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.