Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability in Akwa Ibom State

Umoessien Otobong Paul; Imoh Imoh Ita PhD; Namso Ekpo Mbon PhD

doi:10.56201/ijgem.vol.11.no9.2025.pg24.31

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Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability in Akwa Ibom State

Umoessien Otobong Paul, Imoh Imoh Ita PhD, Namso Ekpo Mbon PhD

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between solid waste management (SWM) and environmental sustainability in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, focusing on flooding and clean environment as key indicators. Despite the State’s rapid urbanization and population growth, waste management practices remain inadequate, resulting in indiscriminate dumping, flooding, and environmental degradation. The study adopted a correlational research design, with a sample of 384 respondents selected through multi-stage sampling techniques. Data were collected using the Solid Waste Management Inventory (SWMI) and Sustainable Development Rating Scale (SDRS), and analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and regression analysis. Findings revealed a significant but moderately low negative relationship between SWM and flooding (r = -0.223, p < 0.05) and a significant low negative relationship between SWM and clean environment (r = -0.141, p < 0.05). These results indicate that while SWM efforts exist, they have not effectively translated into improved environmental outcomes, partly due to infrastructural gaps, policy inconsistencies, and low public participation. The study concludes that strengthening waste management systems, promoting public awareness, and improving institutional capacity are critical to achieving sustainable development in the state. It recommends improved waste collection coverage, proper disposal infrastructure, and sustained sensitization campaigns to foster behavioral change and enhance environmental sustainability.

Keywords

Solid waste managementsustainable developmentfloodingclean environment

References

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Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability in Akwa Ibom State

Abstract

Keywords

References

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