Impact of Socio-Economic Factors on Clothing Consumption and Disposal Behaviors amongst Tertiary Institution Staff-Members at Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract

With the rising population and increasing demand for clothing in sub-Saharan Africa, alongside insufficient policy frameworks to address clothing waste, this study explores the impact of socio-economic factors on clothing consumption and disposal behavior amongst tertiary institution staff-members at Ile-Ife, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Results show that 53% of the respondents are male, while 40% are between 35 to 44 years of age. About 30% of the respondents earn a monthly income of between N30, 000 to N130, 000, while 22% earn more than N300,000 monthly. The results of the mean ratings (on a five-point frequency scale) revealed that respondents sometimes dispose used clothing with solid waste (3.32) and by burning (2.86). They however, rarely disposed of textile clothing in landfills (2.30); recycling platforms for reuse (2.14) and in water bodies (1.82). In addition, respondents often (4.04) buy clothing made from natural-based fibers, while they sometimes (3.10) buy clothing made from synthetic-based fibers and aso ebi (clothing for special occasions) (3.32). Data from respondents reveal that high-income individuals are more likely to use formal waste disposal systems (r = .31, p < .05) and engage in high clothing consumption (r = 0.38; p < 0.05), while lower income groups are more likely to prefer to purchase used clothing (r = -.34; p < .05). Older individuals are less likely to give away clothing for recycling (r = -.29; p < .05) possibly due to social influences and cultural beliefs. Younger people however, favor synthetic-based clothing (r = -.31; p < .05) and recycling (r = -.29; p < .05) and engage in improper disposal methods such as dumping used clothing in water bodies (r = -.37; p < .05). Individuals with higher levels of education are less likely to engage in buying aso ebi (r = -.32; p < .05). The study highlights the need for targeted campaigns for different socio-economic groups, and infrastructural development to promote environmentally friendly disposal practices. Policy recommendations focus on encouraging recycling and reducing the environmental impact of textile waste.