Land pollution and population density : the case of Kwekwe City residential areas, Zimbabwe

Abstract

In most developing countries, the problem of inefficient municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is endemic. The problem is manifested by heaps of uncollected solid waste found on open areas and by the street sides. This dissertation examines the relationship between land pollution and population density resulting from solid waste generation in the City of Kwekwe in Zimbabwe. Questionnaires and interviews were conducted to 375 randomly selected households in low, medium and high density residential suburbs. The household survey was triangulated with field observations, key informant interviews and secondary data sources. The average household size in high, medium and low density residential areas was 11, 8 and 5 people respectively. The study revealed that the amount and composition of solid waste generated varied according to household size, income and education levels of residents. The higher the population density, the more the solid waste produced. However, waste generated was not carried to the dumpsites for disposal. Also the higher the income, the higher the amount of solid waste produced, although residents with high income were able to ferry their wastes to the dumpsites hence less land pollution. The solid waste generation rate in high density areas was 0.04 kg/capita day, in medium density areas was 0.35 kg/capita/day and in low density areas were 0.84 kg/capita/day. It was also observed that among high income earners, the educated people produced more waste than low income earners. However, the low income earners and the less educated people could not take care of their environment to limit roadside and open space littering. However, lack of public awareness coupled with inefficient and ad hoc waste management system continue make provision of effective solid waste management services illusive. Based on the research findings, it is suggested sound environmental stewardship amongst residents will limit land pollution in the city of Kwekwe.