Factors Responsible for Indiscriminate Disposal of Sachet Water Wastes in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Notwithstanding the benefits accruing from sachet water production and consumption, the indiscriminate and improper disposal of the waste poses huge environmental problems. The study therefore identified factors responsible for indiscriminate disposal of sachet water wastes in Anambra State, Nigeria. Structured questionnaire were used to collect data from a sample of 161 respondents. Percentage, mean score, factor analysis, Pearson’s correlation matrix of interrelation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were employed for data analysis. Statistical analysis of the data shows attitude/behaviour (0.620) and people’s ignorance of the effects (-0.532) as psychological factors responsible for indiscriminate disposal of sachet water waste while affordability (0.562) and lack of recycling plants (0.610) were economic factors responsible for indiscriminate disposal of sachet water waste. Attitude and need (80.10 %) and environmental control (13.24%) were the two underlying dimensions used in explaining these factors which are responsible for indiscriminate disposal of sachet water waste. For proper and adequate disposal of sachet water wastes, the study suggests public enlightenment campaigns aimed at helping people change their attitude about indiscriminate disposal of sachet water waste.

Keywords: Sachet, indiscriminate, waste, water, disposal