An Evaluation of the Impact of Illegal Dumping of Solid Waste on Public Health in Nigeria: A Case Study of Lagos State

Abstract

The illegal dumping of solid waste is a prevalent issue in Nigeria, affecting all states. Lagos State, in particular, faces waste disposal problems that stem from urbanization, negative public perception towards waste management, insufficient waste disposal education, poor waste disposal practices, and the disposal of waste at illegal and unauthorized sites. This situation is further exacerbated by inadequate municipal solid waste (MSW) collection rates, making it challenging to combat illegal dumping effectively. To align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 of Sustainable Cities, which seeks to minimize negative environmental effects associated with managing MSW by 2030, this study aims to assess the environmental and health impact of illegal dumping of solid waste in Lagos State. The objectives of this study include assessing people’s attitudes towards illegal dumping, evaluating the extent of environmental degradation resulting from illegal solid waste dumping in Lagos, and assessing the health risks associated with exposure to illegally dumped solid waste in Lagos State, as well as determining if illegal dumping contributes to the diseases prevalent in Lagos State. This study will use a quantitative approach to collect data from study participants on demographics, educational background, waste management, and environmental and health issues using computer-assisted self-administered questionnaires (Google Forms). This study will also use observations and photographs of illegally dumped waste in communities and major illegal dumpsites in the study area to provide valuable information to complement the questionnaire responses. By combining both approaches, the study will be able to capture both numerical data and people’s behaviors and attitudes associated with illegal dumping. This study will use a mixed sampling method consisting of cluster sampling and convenience sampling, focusing on communities impacted by illegal dumping in Lagos State. The sample size for this study will be 100. The questionnaire for this study will be administered via a Google Forms link that will be shared through various online platforms, enabling participants to access and complete the questionnaire from any location with internet access. To ensure representative participation, as part of the informed consent form on the initial page of the online questionnaire, a screening question that requires participants to indicate if they live or work in the study areas or have been exposed to the impact of illegal dumping will be included. Only those who meet these criteria will be able to proceed with the study. The primary data obtained will be carefully analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. The study’s results will highlight the importance of the linkage between illegal dumping, environmental degradation, and diseases prevalent in Lagos State, which could inform policymakers and relevant departments in developing effective strategies to improve public health.