Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste Recycling Practices in Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Plastic waste accumulation has emerged as a critical environmental challenge in Jos 
South Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, Nigeria, driven by increasing 
consumption patterns, rapid urbanization, and inadequate municipal waste collection 
systems. Although plastic recycling activities are practiced within the area, their 
environmental implications have not been comprehensively evaluated. This study 
assessed the environmental impacts of plastic waste recycling practices in Jos South 
LGA using a descriptive cross-sectional research design. Primary data were obtained 
from 82 valid respondents through structured questionnaires administered to 
households, waste collectors, business operators, and environmental management 
officials. To enhance data reliability and provide contextual insights, key informant 
interviews and systematic field observations were also conducted. The findings indicate 
that plastic recycling activities are predominantly driven by the informal sector, 
accounting for 68% of recycling operations within the study area. Furthermore, 62% of 
respondents reported that recycling activities have contributed significantly to 
reducing indiscriminate littering, while 54% observed a decline in drainage blockage 
resulting from improved plastic waste recovery. Despite these positive environmental 
outcomes, the effectiveness of existing recycling practices is constrained by 
inadequate recycling infrastructure, low levels of environmental awareness among 
residents, and weak implementation and enforcement of waste management policies. 
These limitations reduce the overall efficiency and sustainability of plastic waste 
management initiatives within the locality. The study concludes that enhancing plastic 
waste recycling through strengthened public-private partnerships, investment in 
modern recycling infrastructure, effective policy implementation, and sustained 
environmental education and public awareness programmes will significantly improve 
waste management efficiency, reduce environmental pollution, and promote long-term 
environmental sustainability in Jos South Local Government Area.