Sustainable Management of Domestic Solid Wastes in Developing Countries: Operations, Environmental Concerns and Community-Based Strategies in Kenya

This paper reports the results of an investigation into the problems of solid waste operations and disposal in Thika and Nakuru municipalities in Kenya. The objectives of the study were to estimate the quantity of waste generated per capita, determine the composition of wastes and assess the environmental concerns of the community and their participation in the management of domestic solid wastes. The waste generation per capita was estimated at 0.59 kg/person/day. Eighty five percent of the solid wastes consisted of food wastes. Some solid wastes contained hazardous household substances such as dry cells and discarded containers of health care products. The urban community was concerned about health and environmental effects of improperly managed solid wastes. On the basis of the findings of this study, it is concluded that community participation could be a feasible strategy to manage urban solid wastes, provided that the community is sensitised, educated and assisted in handling some solid waste operations. Journal of Civil Engineering, JKUAT (2001) Vol 6, 13-2