Track: Waste Management

Abstract

This study sought to grasp how sawmill wastes are managed and disposed-off in the study area. The research was carried out at the Enugu Timber Market in Kenyatta, in Nigeria's eastern region. The study used a descriptive, qualitative, and quantitative ex-post facto survey design to create an accurate profile of people, events, and situations. To obtain the required data, a triangulation method comprised of questionnaire, interview, and observation/photography methods was used.  For primary data collection, stratified random sampling method was used to select a realised sample of 250 respondents from a finite population (of 1970 timber market workers) comprising of wood processors, carpenters, timber sellers, dealers on wood accessories, food sellers and fabricated cart haulers from the areas under survey. The survey results show that sawdust is the most common type of wood waste generated, accounting for 28.4 percent of total wood waste generated, and is closely followed by offcuts. The study also reveals that open dumping and burning are perhaps the most prevalence method of disposing of wood wastes in the study area, with only a small quantity recycled or reused. Improper disposal of wood waste has negative effects on the environment because it affects both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Burning waste wood also emits greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, causing a range of health problems. These wood wastes can be best utilised recycling and reusing them to help lessen the impact on and the environment caused by improper disposal.