Missing Links in Solid Waste Management Practices in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA)

Abstract

In recent years, solid waste management (SWM) policies and programmes have received lots of attention in the menu of most political leaders in developing countries. However, these concerns often focus on the efficiency criterion. Even that, efficiency is only narrowed down to the removal of waste from residential areas without much concern for either its safe disposal or its impact on the environment in case of improper waste disposal. There is little attention on reducing waste flows (through reuse, recycling and composting), or exploiting its economic value. The results of such blatant omission include threats to public health, environmental deterioration and lack of attention to waste as a resource. This study examines the key barriers to effective SWM practices in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area and attests to the marginalization of waste treatment and disposal practices. It recommends that these missing links must be addressed through network service arrangements to ensure sustainable urban environment management.