Environmental Health: Improper Waste Management And

Sometimes life can take us to places we never dreamt of while growing up. That is what my case has been due to marriage in a far away land in Abia State. While I have a lot of fun memories around here, this season of abundance in agricultural products, especially maize, in the country has its challenges.

Talking about Abia State, it is a major maize-producing state in Nigeria. During the maize season, there is a significant increase in the amount of waste generated as I've noticed in my two years plus around here, as farmers and processors discard husks, stalks, and other materials. This waste can have a number of negative environmental and health impacts if it is not properly managed.

One of the main problems with improper waste management in Abia State is that it can lead to air pollution. This is because when, waste is burned, it releases harmful pollutants into the air, such as carbon monoxide. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis, and can also contribute to climate change.

Can you notice the huge waste, which are mostly maize waste and the man covering his 👃 nose?

Improper waste management can also lead to water pollution. When waste is disposed of in rivers, streams, or other bodies of water, it can contaminate the water supply. This can make the water unsafe to drink or use for bathing, and can also lead to the spread of disease.

Open drainage filled with wastes.

In addition to the environmental impacts, improper waste management can also have a number of health impacts. When waste is not disposed of properly, it can attract rodents and other pests. These pests can carry diseases, such as malaria, typhoid, and cholera. They can also contaminate food and water, leading to food poisoning. Talking about rodents, I have no idea, what tampered with my pap ( a product of maize 😐) overnight.

There are a number of things that can be done to improve waste management in Abia State during the maize season. One important step is to increase public awareness of the environmental and health impacts of improper waste disposal. This can be done through education campaigns and other outreach efforts. Granted, they're trying through the regular monthly environmental exercise held last Saturday of every month, more needs to be done.

Another important step is to improve the collection and disposal of waste. This includes providing more bins and other waste receptacles, and ensuring that these receptacles are emptied regularly. It is also important to develop sanitary landfills where waste can be disposed of safely.

By taking these steps, Abia State government can reduce the environmental and health impacts of improper waste management during the maize season. This will help to protect the health of the people and the environment, and will also contribute to the sustainable development of the state.

I will like to find out from you, what waste management systems are available around you, and what environmental challenges do you face in your immediate environment? Please feel free to share.

All images are mine.