Characterization and composition analysis of municipal solid waste in Kano, Nigeria

Abstract

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is produced through human activities and in the last two decades, management of MSW has become a major concern due to considerable increase in its production. The amount of MSW produced increases with economic growth and this demands for efficient solution. This paper reports the characterization and composition analysis of MSW in Kano metropolis. Solid waste samples were collected and analysed from the four major dumpsites in Kano metropolis during the months of September, 2016- January, 2017. The results showed that light plastic had the highest mean values of 8.63kg/50kg sample, Organics 7.22kg/50kg, Heavy plastic 4.15kg/50kg, Fabric 3.91kg/50kg, paper 2.70kg/50kg, metal 2.05kg/50kg, glass 1.89kg/50kg, Bone 1.47kg/50kg, styrofoam 0.19kg/50kg, others 1.06kg/50kg and wood -0.25kg/50kg. There was significant correlation between estimated population and volume of trash collected. We offered suggestion for effective management strategies and efficient policies for waste reduction, disposal and recycling practices.

Keywords: Waste Characterization, Municipal Solid Waste, Waste Composition, Kano, Nigeria