ISSN 2736-1586
African Journal of Geography and Regional Planning ISSN 3627-8945 Vol. 7 (4), pp. 001-008, April, 2020.© International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Landfill development and current practices in Lagos metropolis, Nigeria
Olorunfemi, F. B.
Social and Governance Policy Research Department, Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, Ojoo, Ibadan, Nigeria. E-mail: [email protected].
Accepted 21 September, 2019
Abstract
The disposal of solid wastes to land is the ultimate end-point for any waste management system. However, waste landfills should be set up and operated properly in order to minimise the risks posed to health and the environment. This review provides an insight into landfill operations and management in Lagos, Nigeria. Secondary data and in-situ observations at the landfill sites were used. Results show that landfills within Lagos metropolis are uncontrolled and do not conform to international standards of similar operations elsewhere in the world. This non-compliance result into a proliferation of insects and rodents which allows blowing of litter that causes bad odour and general environmental degradation. These negative impacts can only be minimized by pragmatic design and proper management of landfills within urban and peri-urban areas.
Key words: Waste management, landfills, leachates, environmental degradation, urban areas.