Strategies for Adequate Environmental Management of Sachet Water Waste among Households in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The environmental problems associated with the indiscriminate disposal of sachet water waste on the soils on which we farm calls for adequate strategies for proper disposal. The study identified strategies for adequate environmental management of sachet water waste in Anambra State, Nigeria. A sample of 161 respondents was randomly selected from 7 purposively selected Local Government Areas. Data were collected with questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics including percentage and mean scores. Statistical analysis shows that the majority (40%) of the respondents were between the ages of 30-39.  Majority (85%) were married while the mean family size was 5 persons. The respondents were fairly literate. The mean monthly income of the respondents was N20, 000. It equally reveals that the major strategies for adequate environmental management of sachet water waste include among others: introduction of ‘buy-back pack’ (M=4), environmental public awareness strategy (M=3.6), formation of anti water sachet waste clubs in primary and secondary schools (M=3.8), repackaging of sachet water waste (M=2.5), provision of recycling plants (M=2.8), mounting refuse bins and dumpsters strategically (M=4.0) and prompt  evacuation of waste bins and dumpsters (M=4.0). As a result of the dangers associated with improper disposal of sachet water waste on the environment, the study strongly recommends that the strategies especially formation of anti sachet water waste clubs be urgently introduced in schools so that these young minds be co-opted early into the crusade of saving our environment.

Keywords: Sachet water, waste, management, environmental, strategies, Anambra State.