Abstract:
Waste collection in Enugu has been a major challenge requiring urgent attention. The aim of the work therefore was to study with GIS the management of the existing bin distribution and collection system in order to determine the optimal frequency for waste collection. The methods adopted include questionnaires, oral interviews and field observations to determine the state of waste collection. Waste collection points both legal and illegal dumpsites were identified using handheld GPS and the points were incorporated into a map using ArcGIS software. A total of 177 dumpsite locations were discovered during the study. Illegal dumpsites were 35 in number and legal dumpsites instituted by ESWAMA were 142. Out of the 142 authorized dumpsites, 55 dumpsites were clean and well managed while 87 sites were dirty and overflowing with waste. Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO) Manual (2016) was used in determining the optimum location of bins. This showed that 635 dumpsites were required. Factors considered in recommending the frequency of optimum waste discharge include waste genessration rate, population density, volume of dumpster and socioeconomic factors. Each location requires 1 small waste bins to accommodate daily waste generation. It was therefore recommended that 1 waste bins should be kept at each site and evacuated once a week.
