Vol. 7, Issue 11, Part A (2025)

The cross-sectional study was used to assess the waste management in Owerri Municipality, Imo State, between May and October 2025. Data were gotten through structured questionnaires and on-the-spot observation from 200 randomly selected participants, analyzed using frequency and percentage tables. Results obtained showed that 168 (84%) were aware of waste management practices, while 133 (66.5%) displayed poor attitudes, and all respondents (100%) observed ineffective systems. Non-biodegradable waste predominated (60.5%), while markets (55.5%) were identified as major sources. Burning/incineration (46%) and open dumping (35.5%) were the main disposal methods. Also, 54% of the respondents reported that they did not have particular days for disposal, while 58.5% made use of bags for collection. Trucks (52.5%) and hand carrying (22%) were usual modes of transportation, as 73.5% identified community organizations as responsible for waste collection. There was no statistical difference in this regard, as the P-value was greater than 0.05. The factors attributed to such inefficiency in operation included an increase in population, inadequate education, government neglect, poor regulation, and lack of necessary equipment. Even though 73.5% identified risks to health, pollution, disease outbreaks, blockage of roads, and environmental degradation were still significant impacts. The study, therefore, recommends the provision of central refuse containers, construction of incinerators, and sanitary landfills at strategic locations for the improvement of efficiency in solid waste management.