Waste Management as a Practical Approach to Sustainable Development: A Case Study of the University of Benin,Faculty of Physical Sciences

Abstract

The wastes generated in the Faculty of Physical Sciences shopping complex and offices on daily basis for a period of one week continuous sampling have been determined. The summation of the wastes generated amounted to 355.38kg; the volume was arrived at following the daily scientific survey by gathering all wastes matrix generated in a particular day followed by manual sorting and weighing of the various fractions. Out of the total volume of the wastes generated, food wastes accounted for the total of 129.39 kg/week amounting to 37%, paper and cardboard accounted for 105.73 kg/week taking 30% of the total. Plastic, glass and metals accounted for 92.91kg /week, 15.93kg/week, and 9.42kg/week i.e. (26%, 4% and 3%) of the total waste matrix respectively. Correlation at P < 0.5 two tailed shows a positive correlation indicating that wastes generated were from a similar source, The results were presented in graphs. The ultimate results show that over 100% of the wastes generated in the complex are recyclable and will increase the institution income and create employment opportunities if properly managed while in the same process enhance sustainable development.