Title: Integrated environmental biotechnology-oriented framework for solid waste management and control in Nigeria

Authors: Ikechukwu Noel Emmanuel Onwurah, Victor Nwadiogbu Ogugua, Olawale F. Otitoju

Addresses: Pollution Control and Biotechnology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. ' Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. ' Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract: Several environmental problems arising from man|s activity have to be solved in a cost-effective and an environmentally friendly approach. In this paper, a framework for an integrated management and control of solid waste in the south-east zone of Nigeria is presented. The major activities include collection and transportation of solid waste to designated areas, separation of reusable components (recycling) and bioconversion of biodegradable (biowaste) components into organic fertiliser and biogas. These activities will involve the communities, the industries, Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) having the capacity of |process and production integrated environmental technologies|. Biotechnological conversion of biowaste into enriched humus end product and biogas, and production of other goods and services using solid waste components as raw materials by the SMEs are the areas of |additive environmental technologies|. The overall framework entails the application of modern- and future-oriented technologies that would provide the appropriate tools and direction for managing any backlog of solid waste and future pile-ups. Cooperation among government, public and research organisation is paramount.

Keywords: solid waste; recycling; biotechnological conversion; biogas; organic fertiliser; landfill; environmental biotechnology; waste management; waste control; Nigeria; SMEs; biowaste; environment; environmental management; cooperation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2006.011134

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2006 Vol.1 No.1, pp.94 - 104

Published online: 17 Oct 2006 *

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