Deconstructing the Use and Disposal of Plastic Bags in Tema Community One Township in the Tema Metropolis

Abstract

This study set out to explore and ascertain the increasing use of plastic bags and the environmental effects they have on people. It was also to recommend possible approaches that can be adopted to reduce the environmental impact of the plastic bag waste. The aim of the research was to investigate consumers’ attitudes towards the use of plastic bags, their level of awareness of the environmental hazards posed by the indiscriminate disposal and lack of management of the plastic bag waste. The research was also to assess the role institutions (TMA, waste collecting companies, EPA) play in plastic bag waste management. A combination of the quantitative and qualitative approaches, were used to enable the researcher make objective comparisons. The total sample size for the study was one hundred (100) which was made up of ninety-four (94) consumers and six (6) respondents from institutions. The findings show that there is no clear policy on the management of plastic bags, which worsen sanitation problems in the metropolis. The traditional method of disposing of solid waste is the same means through which plastic bag waste is also being disposed of. Technologies on recycling, reuse, reduction and recovery still remain at exploratory stages. These have implications on the environment especially, with the increasing population, urbanisation and slum development. The study recommends for the design and implementation of a clear policy on plastic waste management, a revision of the old bye-laws to reflect the current ways of managing plastics and constant education of the public on sanitation.