If waste are not properly disposed and managed, there are negative impacts that may result:-
Potential Health Hazard: Municipal solid waste heaps do several parts of our major cities blocking motor roads, alleys and pavement. These unsightly dump sites are characterized by various non biodegradable household petrol chemical products like polythene bags, these waste dumps are unsanitary; destroy the aesthetic appeal of the environment.
They harbor flies, fleas, mosquitoes, rats and other diseases vectors. Some of the disease carried by rodents and insects vectors includes lessa fever, malaria, filiariasis, yellow fever etc. these waste wear provide food, water and habitants and breeding areas for these disease carrying agents as said earlier, children that frequent refuse dumps stands greater risk of contracting disease especially poliomyelitis. Health related environmental problems in Nigeria vary with social and economic development achieved by different states and even different town and villages within industrial states. They are linked to poverty absence of adequate water suppliers, lack of sanitation services and poor housing conditions. With increasingly industrialization the risk of respiratory illness and cancer related death also arises.
The open burning of waste cause air pollution, the product of combustion into toxins, which are particularly hazardous. Aerosols and dusts can spread Fungi and pathogens from uncollected and decomposing wastes. Uncollected waste degrades the urban environments discouraging efforts to keep streets and open spaces clean are an indicator of the ineffectiveness of a municipal administration. Waste collection workers face particularly occupational hazards, including strains from lifting, injuries from sharp objects and traffic accidents.
Using partially diluted, polluted water for irrigation causes reduction in the food quality and quantity of useful and beneficial aquatic flora and fauna, reduction in the food quality and quantity of harvested agricultural produce as a result of irrigation with unwholesome water consumption of agricultural produce. The world health organization defines health as “the state of complete physical, social and mental well being and not the absence of disease or infirmity”. This shows management of waste as an integral part of ensuring a sanitary safe and sound environment.
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