Households’ solid waste separation practices in the Cape Coast Metropolitan area

Abstract

Source separation of solid waste, though rarely practiced in Ghana and Africa, holds great promise to usher the country and continent into the realm of integrated and sustainable solid waste management option. The study investigated households’ solid waste separation practices in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Descriptive research design was employed and multi-stage sampling method was used to obtain data from 246 household respondents whereas 7 key informants were purposively selected. Data for the study were collected through the use of interviews, questionnaires, and observations across low, middle and high-income communities. The data process was done using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 21.10) software programme. Emphasis was placed on the existing solid waste disposal practices, waste separation practices, willingness of households to separate waste and challenges associated with households’ separation of solid waste. The study found that most residents, regardless of their income status, rarely separate their waste. However, there were general indications of residents’ willingness to separate waste at source. Unavailable waste recycling plant and inability to purchase waste separation bins constitute major challenges of waste separation in the study area. For incentives towards future source separation programmes, the study recommends that the central government and Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly in conjunction with their development partners should assist in the provision of waste separation bins and waste recycling plant in the study area. The Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly within its entrusted authority should also promulgate and enforce bye-laws to regulate the process.