CHALLENGES OF RECYCLING PRACTICES AS A MEANS OF WASTE MANAGEMENT IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The escalating worldwide surge in garbage output has become a critical environmental predicament, with millions of metric tonnes of rubbish being generated on a daily basis. Based on the World Bank's report in 2018, it is projected that worldwide trash production would rise by 70% by the year 2050, reaching an estimated yearly total of over 3.4 billion tonnes. The increase in trash not only presents substantial risks to public health but also has negative environmental consequences, such as the pollution of soil and water, the release of greenhouse gases, and the depletion of biodiversity (Geyer et al., 2017). In light of this escalating dilemma, recycling has been acknowledged as a feasible approach to waste management and the advancement of sustainability. Recycling involves the collection, processing, and conversion of waste materials into new goods, which helps prevent them from being disposed in landfills and decreases the need for new resources. Implementing this method may greatly diminish the environmental impact linked to trash disposal and resource exploitation (López-Ridaura et al., 2020). Nevertheless, despite the potential advantages, the execution of efficient recycling methods has several obstacles. Inadequate infrastructure is a major obstacle to effective recycling. Insufficient infrastructure in many towns hinders the appropriate processing of recyclable materials, resulting in elevated contamination rates due to poor sorting (Zhang et al., 2020). Contamination arises when non-recyclable substances are combined with recyclable resources, leading to the production of lower-quality goods and higher processing expenses. A research conducted by McDonald et al. (2019) shown that contamination rates in curbside recycling systems may reach a staggering 25%, which greatly undermines the economic feasibility of these operations. The effectiveness of recycling projects is significantly influenced by public knowledge and involvement. Research has shown that a significant number of people are either uninformed about the recycling initiatives accessible to them or have a limited comprehension of the types of materials that may be recycled (Miller et al., 2021). This lack of understanding often results in decreased rates of involvement and increased levels of contamination. The study conducted by Eilam et al. (2019) emphasises the significance of education and outreach initiatives in enhancing public involvement in recycling behaviours. Moreover, economic variables have a substantial influence on recycling habits. The volatility of commodity prices for recyclable materials may have a significant influence on the economic viability of recycling programs. This is because many towns depend on the sale of recycled materials to cover the expenses associated with collecting and processing them (Zhao et al., 2021). The fluctuation in market prices for recyclable materials might deter investment in recycling infrastructure and result in decreased effectiveness of recycling programs (Li et al., 2020). Recycling processes are also influenced by regulatory frameworks. Contradictory rules and regulations might cause customer confusion and impede the successful execution of recycling activities (Huang et al., 2022). The absence of comprehensive legislation that advocates for recycling may lead to lost chances for recovering resources and reducing waste (Ongondo et al., 2019). The difficulties associated with recycling are not consistent and might change greatly across various locations and groups. Urban locations may have unique difficulties in comparison to rural areas, which are determined by variables such as population density, socioeconomic conditions, and the availability of recycling facilities (Geng et al., 2019). Gaining a comprehensive understanding of these distinct difficulties is crucial in order to develop customised solutions that will improve recycling habits and advance sustainable waste management. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The difficulties linked to recycling procedures are becoming more acknowledged as a substantial obstacle to efficient waste management. Although recycling has the potential to bring about several advantages such as conserving resources, minimising landfill use, and protecting the environment, numerous municipalities face challenges in establishing effective recycling programs. The main concerns are insufficient infrastructure, limited public knowledge and involvement, pollution of recyclable materials, and legislative frameworks that do not promote sustainable practices (Ongondo et al., 2019; Li et al., 2020). Recent research indicates that recycling rates in several metropolitan regions are persistently low as a result of limited availability of recycling facilities and inadequate dissemination of knowledge on appropriate recycling methods (Huang et al., 2022). Moreover, economic variables, such as the volatility of commodity prices for recyclable materials, might jeopardise the economic feasibility of recycling initiatives (Zhao et al., 2021). If these concerns are not addressed, communities run the danger of worsening waste management problems, which might result in higher levels of pollution and environmental deterioration. Hence, the study assess the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

To evaluate whether there is an existing recycling infrastructure in Cameroon

To assess the level of public awareness of recycling practices as a means of waste management in Cameroon.

To investigate the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

Is there an existing recycling infrastructure in Cameroon?

What is the level of public awareness of recycling practices as a means of waste management in Cameroon?

What are the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

Findings of the study will be significant as it will provide valuable insights for policymakers at local, regional, and national levels by revealling the specific challenges faced by communities in implementing recycling programs, policymakers can create targeted interventions and supportive regulatory frameworks that encourage recycling. This research can inform the development of policies that promote public awareness, improve infrastructure, and incentivize recycling initiatives, fostering a culture of sustainability. The study will also be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature and serve as a guide to future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focus on the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon. Empirically, the study will evaluate whether there is an existing recycling infrastructure in Cameroon, assess the level of public awareness of recycling practices as a means of waste management in Cameroon and investigate the challenges of recycling practices as a means of waste management in cameroon.

Geographically, the study is delimited to Goura, Far North Region.

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraints are: 

Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research alongside other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.

Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.

Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.

1.8 Definition of terms

Recycling: The process of collecting, processing, and transforming waste materials into new products to prevent waste, reduce resource consumption, and decrease environmental pollution. This includes the recycling of paper, plastics, metals, glass, and organic materials.

Waste Management: The collection, transport, treatment, and disposal of waste materials in a manner that minimizes their impact on human health and the environment. It encompasses various strategies, including recycling, composting, incineration, and landfill management.

Contamination: The presence of non-recyclable materials mixed with recyclable materials, which can compromise the quality and marketability of recycled products. High contamination levels can lead to increased processing costs and reduced recycling rates.

Public Awareness: The level of understanding and knowledge that the general public has regarding recycling practices, including what materials can be recycled, how to properly sort recyclables, and the benefits of recycling. Public awareness is crucial for increasing participation in recycling programs.

Infrastructure: The physical facilities and systems needed to support recycling activities, including recycling bins, collection vehicles, processing plants, and transportation networks. Adequate infrastructure is essential for the effective implementation of recycling programs.

Economic Viability: The ability of a recycling program to sustain itself financially, including considerations of operating costs, revenues from selling recycled materials, and funding for infrastructure and public education. Economic viability is a critical factor influencing the success of recycling initiatives.

Commodities: Recyclable materials that have economic value and can be sold in the market, such as paper, cardboard, aluminum, glass, and certain plastics. The prices for these commodities can fluctuate based on market demand and supply.

Regulatory Framework: The set of laws, regulations, and policies that govern waste management and recycling practices. A supportive regulatory framework can facilitate the development and implementation of effective recycling programs.

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