Implementation of a municipal solid waste management system in Swakopmund, Namibia

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY : All over the world, municipal solid waste (MSW) is known for causing a wide variety of environmental pollution ranging from water, ground and air pollutions. If not properly managed, the consequences can be harmful to biodiversity. The Namibian Constitution stipulates that every citizen has the right to a good quality and clean environment. Therefore, as humans we should redouble our efforts to minimise these effects, conserve resources and promote environmental quality. Various institutions, government departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and individuals have obeyed the constitution through implementing various approaches, policies and legislation to curb environmental damage and enhance public welfare. The concept of sustainable waste management requires a need to discuss various environmental matters including the economic costs of the most suitable techniques used for municipal solid waste management, aiming to maintain environmental quality and promote public health. Equally important, there is a need to recommend the best alternative municipal solid waste management and disposal approaches. Municipal Solid Waste management systems are actually fundamental instruments incorporated into successful integrated waste management systems.This thesis reports on an assessment of a municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in one of the local authorities in Namibia, as a case study of Swakopmund Municipality. The purpose of this study was to investigate and describe the implementation of a MSWM system in the town of Swakopmund. Furthermore, it provides recommendations with regard to MSWM and disposal methods which may be most suitable, considering the economic costs and environmental impacts of MSW. The methodology used to achieve the study objectives involved the review of related literature, interviews with the key personnel from the Health Department working directly with MSW and environmental management. A questionnaire was also prepared and randomly distributed to 200 residents above the age of 18. Disposal site visits and direct observation were conducted weekly to access data about waste composition, quantity and to scrutinise the 4Rs strategic approach. The study found that source reduction, waste segregation at source, reuse and recycling, are some of the most effective strategies toward improving MSWM. However, at Swakopmund, these strategies are applied at a minimal degree. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the Council of Swakopmund Municipality should invest more in the MSW sector, in terms of constructing a sanitary landfill to replace the current open but controlled dumpsite. It was also recommended that the Council should develop and implement modernised waste management strategy and practices, supported by technology and benchmarked with the best practices in the world.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University