Assessing the impact of sachet water disposal practices on urban environmental health in southern Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigated the impact of sachet water disposal practices on environmental health in urban areas of southern Nigeria. The study combined questionnaire surveys, water sampling, and disease incidence data, analysed using SPSS. The results showed that 85% of sachet water waste was disposed of improperly, with 40% dumped on streets and 25% in drainage systems. Pollution of urban water bodies was alarming, with plastic particle concentrations of 100–150 mg/L. Areas with high waste levels showed high incidence rates of waterborne diseases, such as typhoid (15%), cholera (12%), dysentery (8%), and hepatitis A (5%). Public knowledge of proper disposal methods was generally low: 25% of respondents were fully aware and practised proper disposal, 20% knew the right method but did not use it, 30% had minimal understanding, and 25% had no knowledge at all. Improper disposal rates decreased from 70% in 2020 to a projected 50% in 2024. Further improvement is needed in waste management infrastructure, laws and penalties, and public awareness to encourage responsible and sustainable waste disposal practices.