Hindrances towards Infusing Environmental Management into the Operation of Micro Enterprises in Nigeria

Abstract

The economic situation of Nigeria today has led to the existence of numerous micro enterprises and they experience the biggest environmental impact. The non-consideration of environmental impact in the operations of micro enterprises in most cases lead to low productivity and untimely exit from the business arena. This study therefore aimed at finding out the hindrances towards infusing environmental management (EM) in the operations of micro enterprises in Anambra State, Nigeria. Survey research design was used for the study. The population for the study was 450 operators of registered micro enterprises in Anambra State. A sample of 215 was drawn from the population. A structured questionnaire, validated by four experts was used for data collection. The null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study identified lack of substantial capital, lack of proper managerial/entrepreneurship skills and infrastructure as factors that constitute barriers to effective infusion of environmental management in the business operations of micro enterprises. The study recommended among others that the three tiers of Nigerian government should carry out sensitization campaign on the implications of EM in the operations of micro enterprises and as well create massive awareness regarding government constituted environmental regulatory agencies and their functions in order to reduce clashes between entrepreneurs and the government officials. Adherence to these will help them to succeed in this modern competitive business world where technology is constantly changing the face of businesses.