Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe

Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe Amato Chireshe, Steven Jerie, Timothy Vurayayi Mutekwa, Tapiwa Shabani, and 2 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 11 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Improper solid waste management is one of the causes of environmental and health problems in many cities worldwide. It is in this context that the study aimed to determine the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni suburbs in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe and assess the health and environmental problems associated with the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni. Researchers used a mixed method design in which quantitative and qualitative data was collected at the same time. Semi –structured interviews, field observations and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised 380 Amaveni residents, 3 Kwekwe City employees and one EMA official. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically while quantitative data was analyzed using inferential statistics. Open dumping and open burning were the dominant solid waste management strategies in Amaveni. The main health problems identified were cholera and malaria. Air pollution, water pollution and loss of urban beauty were the main environmental problems identified. From the findings it can be concluded that solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni were associated with many health and environmental problems and as a result a sustainable solid waste management model was developed for Amaveni suburb. Solid waste Management strategies Impacts Kwekwe Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 1. Introduction Solid waste management is one of the most challenging environmental issues that urban areas face globally (Chireshe, 2020 , World bank, 2020). The continued population growth in cities, coupled with increased urbanization has resulted in a surge of waste production which pose significant challenges to sustainable development (Glaeser, 2011;World Bank,2012; United Nations, 2018). In many urban areas, the volume of solid waste generated overwhelms the waste collection and disposal systems, resulting in adverse environmental and public health outcomes (United Nations, 2018; World Bank, 2012 ). Solid waste management strategies refer to the comprehensive plan and approach adopted by governments, organizations and communities to effectively handle and dispose solid waste (Jama, 2019 ). According to Rana, Ganguly and Gupta (2019) solid waste management strategies encompasses various practices and techniques aimed at minimizing the adverse impact of solid waste on the environment and public health. Landfilling is a method of solid waste management which involves compacting and covering solid waste with soil (Nor Faiza et al., 2019 ). According to World Bank ( 2012 ) 59% percent of waste collected in the world is sent to landfills. Composting is another method used to dispose biodegradable waste such as food scraps, leaves and grass clippings. Kibblewhite, Ritz and Swift (2018) defines composting as the process of decomposing organic materials into nutrient filled soil amendment known as compost. The organic matter is allowed to decompose under controlled conditions of oxygen, temperature and moisture (Bernal-Vicente et al., 2019). Composting transform solid waste into nutrient rich organic manure that can be used to improve soil fertility thereby reducing the need of synthetic fertilizers (Kaza and Bhada-Tata, 2018 ; Kibblewhite, Ritz and Swift, 2018). Incineration also known as waste to energy involves controlled burning waste at high temperatures of around 1000 degrees Celsius in specialized facilities called incinerators (Kaza and Bhada-Tata ( 2018 ). This method reduces the volume of waste and generates heat or electricity (Allsopp, Costner and Johnson (2019). In some cases, people resort to open burning of waste as a means of disposal. This method involves the combustion of waste materials in an open-air setting without the use of controlled incinerators or specialized equipment (EPA, 2021 ; Wang et al., 2020). It is a simple and low cost method of disposal that has been used in various parts of the world, particularly in developing countries (Hassim et al, 2020). This method however is not recommended as it contributes to air pollution and can be harmful to health (Wang et al., 2020; Hassim et al., 2017 ; WHO, 2010). Recycling is a disposal method that aims to recover and process materials from the waste stream to create new products (Amugsi et al., 2016 ). In high income countries 129 million tons of waste is recycled while low income countries recycle 0, 02 million tons per year. About 63% of all waste generated in developed countries is recycled while less than 10% of generated waste is recycled in developing countries (Greencape, 2017 ). Open dumping refers to the disposal of waste on any undesignated open space (Simelane and Mohee, 2012). Open dumping is the most affordable of all methods of disposal and that is why it is most common in low income nations (Mohamed and Eyasu, 2017). However, the method is not friendly to the environment as it is associated with many environmental and health risks. Improper disposal of hazardous waste, such as chemicals, electronic waste, and pharmaceuticals, can lead to toxic exposure (World Bank, 2020). This exposure can occur through direct contact, inhalation of airborne pollutants, or contamination of water sources and can result in various health problems, including respiratory issues, neurological disorders, cancer, and reproductive problems (World Bank, 2020). Incinerators used in Europe release pollutants such as dioxins, heavy metals, and particulates which pose health risks to people (Kaza and Bhada -Tata, 2018; Haregu et al., 2017). The emissions from incinerators cause respiratory diseases such as asthma and cancer. Exposure to compounds emitted from incinerators may occur by inhalation of contaminated air, consumption of local agricultural produce or contact with contaminated ashes (Allsopp, Costner and Johnston, 2018). Occupational hazards exist for workers involved in waste collection, recycling, and disposal (Haregu et al., 2017). These hazards include physical injuries, exposure to hazardous substances, and respiratory problems. Improperly managed landfills can contaminate groundwater and surface water, leading to waterborne diseases (Omag et al, 2021; Haregu et al, 2017). Leachate, a liquid formed as waste decomposes, can contain hazardous substances that infiltrate water sources (WHO, 2016; Lethbridge, 2017; Kulinkina et al., 2019; Chireshe, 2020 ). Contaminated water can pose risks to human health, causing gastrointestinal illnesses, liver damage, and other waterborne diseases (Omag et al, 2021). Open air burning and spontaneous combustion in dumping site, are among the causes of air pollution and unpleasant odor (Wang et al., 2020), Open burning releases a wide range of greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane directly into the atmosphere (Hassim et al., 2017 , Wang et al., 2020; WHO, 2016). When waste is improperly disposed leachate generated as a result of the decomposition can contaminate water sources (Ferronato and Torreta, 2019 ). Leachate can seep into the groundwater, polluting drinking water sources and harming ecosystems (United Nations Environment Program, 2016; Mandevere and Jerie 2018). The presence of leachate can harm aquatic life, degrade water quality and damage aquatic habitats (Chatira-Muchopa and Tarisayi, 2019). Solid waste management is a threat to the urban environment as it is associated with loss of urban beauty (Chireshe, 2020 ; Balasubramania, 2018 ; Mafume et al., 2016 ). Houses near dumping sites were charged lower rent and lower selling prices than houses far from disposal sites (Mohsin and Chinyama, 2016 ). This was due to unfavourable conditions near dumping sites. 2. Materials and methods 2.1 Location of Study Area Kwekwe is a town in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. It has a population of 119,863 (ZIMSTAT 2022 ). Kwekwe is made up of low, medium and high-density suburbs. Amaveni is one of the high-density suburbs in Kwekwe situated in the northern side of the Kwekwe central business district. It is about 5 km from the CBD. Its geographical coordinates are 18 55 30 o south, 29 46 54 o east from the CBD. Amaveni is one of the oldest suburbs in Zimbabwe which was established during the colonial error as a racially segregated dormitory for African male laborers. Today Amaveni is made up of people from different professional backgrounds. 2.2 Method of Data Collection Triangulation method was employed. According to Creswell and Clark, ( 2017 ) triangulation refers to research that combines quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study. The mixed-methods approach was suitable for this study as it allowed a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of solid waste management practices in residential areas (Berman, 2017 ). By combining qualitative and quantitative data more accurate and contextually rich information is obtained resulting in findings that can be generalized to other settings or populations (Creswell and Creswell, 2018). Furthermore, mixed research design enabled the researchers to triangulate quantitative data from questionnaires and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and observation thereby increasing the validity of the findings (Creswell,2014). The target population for this study comprises residents of Amaveni suburb in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe. Amaveni suburb had approximately 2000 houses with a population of around 20000 people (ZIMSTAT, 2022 ). Cochran’s formula was used to determine sample size: n = \(\frac{{z}^{2}*p(1-p)}{{e}^{2}}\) where p is standard deviation = 0.5 z is standard normal deviate at 95% confidence interval which is set at 1.96 e is margin of error = 5% n is sample size = \(\frac{{1.96}^{2}*0.5(1-0.5)}{{0.05}^{2}}\) = \(\frac{ 3.8416*0.25}{0.0025}\) = \(\frac{0.9604}{0.0025}\) = 384.16 Thus 384 participants took part in this study. Researchers used stratified random sampling to select Amaveni residents who took part in the study. The suburb was sub-divided into 20 sections based on geographical locations. From each section 19 residents were randomly selected thereby having a total of 380 residents. Stratified random sampling ensured that a diverse representation of households across different sections of Amaveni were included in the study. It also ensured that there was no bias in the selection of the population sample and every member of Amaveni suburb had an equal chance of being selected. Purposive sampling was used to select three key informants from the Kwekwe city council and one from the Environmental Management Agency. Two council officials from the department of waste management were selected and these included the director of waste management services and one waste collection worker because they had information on solid waste management. One environmental health technician (EHT) from the department of health within the city council was also selected to provide reliable insights on health impacts associated with solid waste management. The EMA official was selected to provide reliable information on environmental impacts associated with solid waste. 2.3 Data Analysis and Presentation The collected data was analyzed using statistical software for social sciences (SPSS) and thematic analysis. Quantitative data obtained from the survey questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and Chi-square, to identify patterns, trends, and relationships. Qualitative data from interviews and observations was transcribed, coded, and subjected to thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. The themes used in the description were derived from the research objectives. The themes include solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni, health and environmental impacts associated with solid waste management. Findings of this research were presented on graphs, tables and pie charts for easy interpretation. 3. Results and Discussion 3.1 Solid Waste Management Strategies 3.1.1 Bin Provision All questionnaire respondents (100%) indicated that the Kwekwe city council did not provide bins to store household solid waste, hence each household found their own container to store solid waste before collection. Most of the participants used 50kg sacks (70%), 15% used black polythene bags, 8% had plastic bins, 2% used metal bins and 1% used cardboard boxes to store solid household waste. This information concurs with information obtained through interviews. Interviewee A revealed that “Kwekwe city council used to provide bins to residents long back; however they have stopped providing bins to residents due to financial constraints.” (Excerpt from interview Kwekwe, 2023) Researchers observed different receptacles that were being used by residents to store solid waste. Some of the receptacles used to store waste were posing a health risk to residents as they had no seals to keep away vermin and vectors from accessing the waste and to prevent odor from escaping into the air around. Sometimes the receptacles such as plastic paper and cardboard boxes get torn before collection by dogs in search of food. The findings of this study concur with what other researchers have noted in other urban areas. For example, a study in Ghana (Kubanza and Simatele, 2017) and in Zimbabwe (Nyanzou and Jerie, 2014 ) noted that the city council did not provide bins hence residents used different containers to store solid waste before collection. 3.1.2 Waste Disposal A significant number of questionnaire respondents (52%) dispose their solid waste through open burning while 45% of the participants dispose waste through open dumping as shown in Fig. 3.2 . Thirty five percent of questionnaire respondents dispose waste through land filling and only 1% of waste is recycled. Interviewee D revealed that: “Open burning and dumping of solid waste is rampant in Amaveni suburb due to erratic collection of waste by the Kwekwe city council.”(Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Interviewee C said “Household solid waste collected from Amaveni suburb is landfilled at the outskirts of the suburb however there is a lot of waste dumped in open spaces”. (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Researchers observed some waste dumps within the suburb and also visited the unsanitary landfill near the suburb. This information implies that there were improper solid waste management strategies employed in Amaveni suburb. The waste disposal methods used increased environmental and health risks within the suburb. 3.2 Health Impacts 3.2.1 Water Borne Diseases Responding to the question on water borne diseases, Interviewee C said: Increasing illegal solid waste disposal in Amaveni is posing risks to people’s health as more and more flies breed in the dumpsites increasing the chances of cholera outbreak. Interviewee D also revealed that “Dumping of solid waste has polluted water sources in Amaveni and this has increased the risk of cholera in Amaveni suburb.”(Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) The findings of this study on water borne diseases confirms what previous researchers have established. For example in Ghana (Ashitey, 2014 ) and in Zimbabwe (Nyanzou and Jerie, 2014 ; Chireshe, 2020 ) found that improper disposal of solid waste can cause water borne diseases like cholera. Leachate from dumpsites may contaminate water sources and when this water is used by people without adequate treatment it can increase the risk of cholera outbreak (Chireshe, 2020 ). 3.2.2 Vector Borne Diseases Interviewee C’s response on the question regarding health risks associated with solid waste management was: “Mosquitoes are breeding on decomposing solid waste dumped in open spaces increasing the risk of malaria in Amaveni suburb”. (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Researchers also observed mosquitoes and house flies on waste dumps. Improper disposal of solid waste created breeding areas for vectors thereby increasing the risk of vector borne diseases. The findings of this study are in harmony with studies conducted in Tanzania (Palfrema, 2014), in Ghana (Ashitey, 2014 ) and in Masvingo, Zimbabwe (Chireshe, 2020 ) that concluded that poor solid waste management can promote breeding of mosquitoes thereby increasing cases of malaria. 3.2.3 Respiratory Diseases In response to the question relating to respiratory diseases Interviewee C revealed that: ‘Many residents burn solid waste in the suburb which produces a lot of smoke and this has caused many people to experience coughing problems.’(Except from interview, Amaveni suburb, 2023) Interviewee D shared the same sentiments and said: “A lot of smoke is produced in the suburb from burning of solid waste and many people are exposed to the risk of breathing the smoke resulting in coughs” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) The information above implies that respiratory problems were associated with solid waste management in Amaveni suburb. The findings of this study corroborate with findings from studies in Brazil (Mahler et al., 2016) and in Malaysia (Aminuddin and Rahman, 2015) which established that waste workers and residents living near dump sites were at risk of breathing problems due to smoke from burning solid waste. 3.2.4 Injury Problems Responding to a question on injury problems, interviewee C stated that: “Waste pickers and many waste workers are cut by sharp objects at dump sites” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Interviewee A concurred with the view above and said: “Waste workers often request for safety shoes and gloves to protect themselves from cuts from broken glass and scrap metal.” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Researchers also observed broken glass and scraps of metal within dumpsites during field observation. Information above confirms that injuries are associated with improper solid waste management in Amaveni suburb. Scraps of metal and broken glass are sharp objects; hence they increase the risk of cuts. The findings of this study on injury risks are in line with other studies that have been carried out before. For example, in Latin America (Cruvinel et al., 2019 ), in Sudan (Yadi, 2018) and in Zimbabwe (Chireshe, 2020 ) concluded that municipal waste workers and waste pickers experience cuts from sharp objects on dumpsites. 3.3 Environmental impacts 3.3.1 Air pollution Most of the questionnaire respondents (80%) agreed that solid waste strategies used in Amaveni were associated with air pollution as shown in Table 3.1 . Table 3.1 Environmental problems Environmental risk Agree Not agree Not sure Air pollution 80% 5% 15% Water pollution 90% 2% 8% Soil pollution 97% 1% 2% Loss of urban beauty 86% 3% 11% The information from questionnaires concurred with information obtained through interviews. Interviewee D noted that: “Air pollution is one environmental risk associated with solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni since burning of solid waste is common” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Researchers also observed a fire on one of the dumpsites within the Amaveni suburb emitting smoke into the atmosphere. The results of this study indicated that solid waste management strategies being used in Amaveni were resulting in air pollution. The finding on air pollution is in line with previous researches done in other places .For example in Kenya (Muniafu and Otiato, 2010 ) and in Zimbabwe (Chireshe, 2020 ) showed that burning of solid waste on dumpsites produced a lot of smoke that entered into the atmosphere. Instead of open burning other scholars like Atalia et al. ( 2015 ) suggested the use of incineration as it is associated with less air pollution. However, this method is expensive as alluded to by Khaza and Bhada-Tata, (2018) 3.3.2 Water Pollution The majority of questionnaire respondents (90%) agreed that water pollution was associated with illegal solid waste disposal as shown in Table 3.1 . Information from interviews was in harmony with information obtained through questionnaires. Interviewee D said: “The streams are clogged with plastics that are being thrown all over in Amaveni suburb” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) Solid waste was observed in surface water sources as shown in Fig. 3.6 . Thus water pollution was an environmental risk associated with solid waste management in Amaveni suburb.. The findings of this study corroborate with what was observed in other urban arrears. For example, studies in India (Alam et al. 2020) and in Zimbabwe (Jerie and Nyanzou, 2014 ) found that leachate from disposal sites polluted surface water. Water pollution may increase water treatment costs for the city council and can cause disease if people drink this water. 3.3.3 Loss of urban beauty The majority of questionnaire respondents (86%) agreed that poor solid waste management is associated with loss of urban beauty. Responses from questionnaires were in harmony with interviews. Interviewee D noted that: “The general outlook of Amaveni suburb is dirty due to illegal dumping of solid waste in open spaces.” (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023) The researchers observed solid waste illegally disposed on open spaces and this has reduced the aesthetic value of Amaveni suburb as shown in Fig. 3.7 . This means solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni suburb were associated with loss of urban beauty. This finding confirms what other researchers have noted. For example, in Masvingo, Zimbabwe (Chireshe, ( 2020 ), established that the market value of properties near disposal sites in Mucheke and Rujeko suburbs was about 4% lower than those away from illegal disposal sites. In South Africa (Mangizvo an Mapindu, 2012 and in Uganda (Kinobe, 2015 ) noted that improper solid waste disposal results in loss of aesthetic value leading to low property values. 4. Conclusion and recommendations Conclusion Solid waste was disposed through open burning, illegal dumping and unsanitary landfilling. Insignificant amount of waste was composted and recycled. Diseases such as cholera and malaria were health problems identified in Amaveni suburb. The main environmental problems identified included air pollution, water pollution and loss of urban beauty. Thus, solid waste management in Amaveni was not sustainable since it was not promoting Sustainable Development Goal 3 of good health and wellbeing and Sustainable Development Goal 6 of clean water and sanitation. Recommendations The following recommendations were proposed to improve solid waste management: The kwekwe city council should provide enough bins to promote segregation of waste at source. The Kwekwe city council should partner with donor agencies to construct a sanitary landfill. The kwekwe city council should charge heavy penalties for violating waste management regulations to act as a deterrent and encourages compliance. Residents should participate in community initiatives. This involves engaging in community clean-up drives, recycling programs and awareness campaigns organized by the Kwekwe City Council. Declarations All authors have read, understood, and have complied as applicable with the statement on ‘Ethical responsibilities of Authors’ as found in the Instructions for Authors and are aware that with minor exceptions, no changes can be made to authorship once the paper is submitted. Authors’ contributions Amato Chireshe and Muyambo Tafadzwa: Data collection and writing the original draft Steven Jerie and Timothy Vurayayi Mutekwa: reviewing and analysis of the paper. Takunda Shabani and Tapiwa Shabani: Writing of original draft Consent to publish All authors agreed to publish the review Conflict of Interest The authors declare no conflict of interest Availability of data and materials Available from the authors on reasonable request. Consent to participate All authors participated and agreed to participate up to final revision of the manuscript Ethical approval Approval was granted by Midlands State University to carry out the research as well as to publish under its name. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-4237197","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":289535550,"identity":"e6ff1e95-742d-41c9-9f78-8be2a836ed8d","order_by":0,"name":"Amato Chireshe","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Midlands State University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Amato","middleName":"","lastName":"Chireshe","suffix":""},{"id":289535551,"identity":"969679a1-64bc-4ec8-9695-461092b1a92a","order_by":1,"name":"Steven Jerie","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Midlands State 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Shabani","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA2klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDACCQY2EGXAwN4AoiyI1ZIA1MJzAKRFghQtEgkQLkEgP7v52cOfP+yMDW4+v7rhR4EEA397dwJeLQZ3jpkb8yQkmxnczim72QN0mMSZsxvwa5FIMJNmSGC2AWpJu8ED1GIgkYtfi/yM9G+SPxLqbQxunkm7+YcYLQw3cswkeBIOmxncYD92myhbDG7klBvzpB03ljyTw3ZbxkCCh6BfgA7b9vCHTbVh3/Hjz26++WMjx9/eS8BhCMBjACaJVQ4C7A9IUT0KRsEoGAUjCAAAuYJG+ql//tIAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Midlands State University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Takunda","middleName":"","lastName":"Shabani","suffix":""},{"id":289535555,"identity":"bc868332-6eb4-4dc3-bea6-b6f4e0ffd1ec","order_by":5,"name":"Tafadzwa Muyambo","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Midlands State University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Tafadzwa","middleName":"","lastName":"Muyambo","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-04-08 14:33:00","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":54928475,"identity":"e8076d7c-466d-4091-99c0-e0c7d560187e","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":504380,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eSee image above for figure legend\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/1e3bda9026a0f52a74b3bf8e.png"},{"id":54928479,"identity":"f9266a1b-51c1-4343-bbfd-70cbc5a4c677","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":115149,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.1: Receptacle used to store solid waste (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image2.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/5e65c603f0ff1068ee3a33f7.jpg"},{"id":54928473,"identity":"b707b34b-b1b3-468e-a6f6-68ca40d22ca4","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":24705,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.2: Waste disposal methods\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/386000b745dfce166c7eaef5.png"},{"id":54929252,"identity":"c779baed-187b-486f-a327-103042259fce","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:46:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":292485,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.3: Waste dumps in Amaveni suburb (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image4.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/d100bca4e05e2571ca0f4dff.jpg"},{"id":54928480,"identity":"49f57df5-7e98-41bd-a615-bd57d63859b6","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":180824,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.4: Scraps of metal within unsanitary landfill (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image5.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/2b40429bd26000e8f9a91aaa.jpg"},{"id":54928476,"identity":"f816d34d-4333-4a6e-bfbd-0d5dafd262de","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":245215,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.5: Burning waste emitting smoke into the air (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image6.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/339998f61ced951d0efc0ef9.jpg"},{"id":54928478,"identity":"38a506fc-6f06-4e9d-9fe9-e97c3e3330e8","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":7,"title":"Figure 7","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":189468,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.6: Solid waste in water sources (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image7.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/06705b0d35568f33a5cb08ca.jpg"},{"id":54928474,"identity":"36e75f58-d7e1-4f36-a287-5ca3b2c64e69","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:38:52","extension":"jpg","order_by":8,"title":"Figure 8","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":326535,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFigure 3.7: Dumpsite near houses making the area lose beauty (field work, 2023)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image8.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/803226abc5d50529ab4df0cb.jpg"},{"id":54929509,"identity":"e996f05b-8117-470c-a80c-3d2305597541","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-04-18 17:54:53","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2000757,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4237197/v1/1f0a9645-ec56-4a16-85e6-a37e3c3064cb.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eSolid waste management is one of the most challenging environmental issues that urban areas face globally (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e, World bank, 2020). The continued population growth in cities, coupled with increased urbanization has resulted in a surge of waste production which pose significant challenges to sustainable development (Glaeser, 2011;World Bank,2012; United Nations, 2018). In many urban areas, the volume of solid waste generated overwhelms the waste collection and disposal systems, resulting in adverse environmental and public health outcomes (United Nations, 2018; World Bank, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). Solid waste management strategies refer to the comprehensive plan and approach adopted by governments, organizations and communities to effectively handle and dispose solid waste (Jama, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). According to Rana, Ganguly and Gupta (2019) solid waste management strategies encompasses various practices and techniques aimed at minimizing the adverse impact of solid waste on the environment and public health. Landfilling is a method of solid waste management which involves compacting and covering solid waste with soil (Nor Faiza et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). According to World Bank (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e) 59% percent of waste collected in the world is sent to landfills.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eComposting is another method used to dispose biodegradable waste such as food scraps, leaves and grass clippings. Kibblewhite, Ritz and Swift (2018) defines composting as the process of decomposing organic materials into nutrient filled soil amendment known as compost. The organic matter is allowed to decompose under controlled conditions of oxygen, temperature and moisture (Bernal-Vicente et al., 2019). Composting transform solid waste into nutrient rich organic manure that can be used to improve soil fertility thereby reducing the need of synthetic fertilizers (Kaza and Bhada-Tata, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Kibblewhite, Ritz and Swift, 2018). Incineration also known as waste to energy involves controlled burning waste at high temperatures of around 1000 degrees Celsius in specialized facilities called incinerators (Kaza and Bhada-Tata (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). This method reduces the volume of waste and generates heat or electricity (Allsopp, Costner and Johnson (2019). In some cases, people resort to open burning of waste as a means of disposal. This method involves the combustion of waste materials in an open-air setting without the use of controlled incinerators or specialized equipment (EPA, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Wang et al., 2020). It is a simple and low cost method of disposal that has been used in various parts of the world, particularly in developing countries (Hassim et al, 2020). This method however is not recommended as it contributes to air pollution and can be harmful to health (Wang et al., 2020; Hassim et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; WHO, 2010).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecycling is a disposal method that aims to recover and process materials from the waste stream to create new products (Amugsi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). In high income countries 129\u0026nbsp;million tons of waste is recycled while low income countries recycle 0, 02\u0026nbsp;million tons per year. About 63% of all waste generated in developed countries is recycled while less than 10% of generated waste is recycled in developing countries (Greencape, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). Open dumping refers to the disposal of waste on any undesignated open space (Simelane and Mohee, 2012). Open dumping is the most affordable of all methods of disposal and that is why it is most common in low income nations (Mohamed and Eyasu, 2017). However, the method is not friendly to the environment as it is associated with many environmental and health risks. Improper disposal of hazardous waste, such as chemicals, electronic waste, and pharmaceuticals, can lead to toxic exposure (World Bank, 2020). This exposure can occur through direct contact, inhalation of airborne pollutants, or contamination of water sources and can result in various health problems, including respiratory issues, neurological disorders, cancer, and reproductive problems (World Bank, 2020).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIncinerators used in Europe release pollutants such as dioxins, heavy metals, and particulates which pose health risks to people (Kaza and Bhada -Tata, 2018; Haregu et al., 2017). The emissions from incinerators cause respiratory diseases such as asthma and cancer. Exposure to compounds emitted from incinerators may occur by inhalation of contaminated air, consumption of local agricultural produce or contact with contaminated ashes (Allsopp, Costner and Johnston, 2018). Occupational hazards exist for workers involved in waste collection, recycling, and disposal (Haregu et al., 2017). These hazards include physical injuries, exposure to hazardous substances, and respiratory problems. Improperly managed landfills can contaminate groundwater and surface water, leading to waterborne diseases (Omag et al, 2021; Haregu et al, 2017). Leachate, a liquid formed as waste decomposes, can contain hazardous substances that infiltrate water sources (WHO, 2016; Lethbridge, 2017; Kulinkina et al., 2019; Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Contaminated water can pose risks to human health, causing gastrointestinal illnesses, liver damage, and other waterborne diseases (Omag et al, 2021). Open air burning and spontaneous combustion in dumping site, are among the causes of air pollution and unpleasant odor (Wang et al., 2020), Open burning releases a wide range of greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane directly into the atmosphere (Hassim et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e, Wang et al., 2020; WHO, 2016).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen waste is improperly disposed leachate generated as a result of the decomposition can contaminate water sources (Ferronato and Torreta, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Leachate can seep into the groundwater, polluting drinking water sources and harming ecosystems (United Nations Environment Program, 2016; Mandevere and Jerie 2018). The presence of leachate can harm aquatic life, degrade water quality and damage aquatic habitats (Chatira-Muchopa and Tarisayi, 2019). Solid waste management is a threat to the urban environment as it is associated with loss of urban beauty (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Balasubramania, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mafume et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). Houses near dumping sites were charged lower rent and lower selling prices than houses far from disposal sites (Mohsin and Chinyama, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). This was due to unfavourable conditions near dumping sites.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Materials and methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e2.1 Location of Study Area\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKwekwe is a town in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. It has a population of 119,863 (ZIMSTAT \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Kwekwe is made up of low, medium and high-density suburbs. Amaveni is one of the high-density suburbs in Kwekwe situated in the northern side of the Kwekwe central business district. It is about 5 km from the CBD. Its geographical coordinates are 18 55 30\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003e south, 29 46 54\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003e east from the CBD. Amaveni is one of the oldest suburbs in Zimbabwe which was established during the colonial error as a racially segregated dormitory for African male laborers. Today Amaveni is made up of people from different professional backgrounds.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.2 Method of Data Collection\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTriangulation method was employed. According to Creswell and Clark, (\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) triangulation refers to research that combines quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study. The mixed-methods approach was suitable for this study as it allowed a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of solid waste management practices in residential areas (Berman, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). By combining qualitative and quantitative data more accurate and contextually rich information is obtained resulting in findings that can be generalized to other settings or populations (Creswell and Creswell, 2018). Furthermore, mixed research design enabled the researchers to triangulate quantitative data from questionnaires and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and observation thereby increasing the validity of the findings (Creswell,2014).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe target population for this study comprises residents of Amaveni suburb in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe. Amaveni suburb had approximately 2000 houses with a population of around 20000 people (ZIMSTAT, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Cochran\u0026rsquo;s formula was used to determine sample size:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003en = \u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{{z}^{2}*p(1-p)}{{e}^{2}}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e where\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ep is standard deviation\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ez is standard normal deviate at 95% confidence interval which is set at 1.96\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ee is margin of error\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;5%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003en is sample size\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e=\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{{1.96}^{2}*0.5(1-0.5)}{{0.05}^{2}}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e=\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{ 3.8416*0.25}{0.0025}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e=\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{0.9604}{0.0025}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e=\u0026thinsp;384.16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThus 384 participants took part in this study.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResearchers used stratified random sampling to select Amaveni residents who took part in the study. The suburb was sub-divided into 20 sections based on geographical locations. From each section 19 residents were randomly selected thereby having a total of 380 residents. Stratified random sampling ensured that a diverse representation of households across different sections of Amaveni were included in the study. It also ensured that there was no bias in the selection of the population sample and every member of Amaveni suburb had an equal chance of being selected.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePurposive sampling was used to select three key informants from the Kwekwe city council and one from the Environmental Management Agency. Two council officials from the department of waste management were selected and these included the director of waste management services and one waste collection worker because they had information on solid waste management. One environmental health technician (EHT) from the department of health within the city council was also selected to provide reliable insights on health impacts associated with solid waste management. The EMA official was selected to provide reliable information on environmental impacts associated with solid waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e2.3 Data Analysis and Presentation\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe collected data was analyzed using statistical software for social sciences (SPSS) and thematic analysis. Quantitative data obtained from the survey questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and Chi-square, to identify patterns, trends, and relationships. Qualitative data from interviews and observations was transcribed, coded, and subjected to thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. The themes used in the description were derived from the research objectives. The themes include solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni, health and environmental impacts associated with solid waste management. Findings of this research were presented on graphs, tables and pie charts for easy interpretation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results and Discussion","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1 Solid Waste Management Strategies\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1.1 Bin Provision\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll questionnaire respondents (100%) indicated that the Kwekwe city council did not provide bins to store household solid waste, hence each household found their own container to store solid waste before collection. Most of the participants used 50kg sacks (70%), 15% used black polythene bags, 8% had plastic bins, 2% used metal bins and 1% used cardboard boxes to store solid household waste. This information concurs with information obtained through interviews. Interviewee A revealed that\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Kwekwe city council used to provide bins to residents long back; however they have stopped providing bins to residents due to financial constraints.\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers observed different receptacles that were being used by residents to store solid waste. Some of the receptacles used to store waste were posing a health risk to residents as they had no seals to keep away vermin and vectors from accessing the waste and to prevent odor from escaping into the air around. Sometimes the receptacles such as plastic paper and cardboard boxes get torn before collection by dogs in search of food. The findings of this study concur with what other researchers have noted in other urban areas. For example, a study in Ghana (Kubanza and Simatele, 2017) and in Zimbabwe (Nyanzou and Jerie, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) noted that the city council did not provide bins hence residents used different containers to store solid waste before collection.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1.2 Waste Disposal\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA significant number of questionnaire respondents (52%) dispose their solid waste through open burning while 45% of the participants dispose waste through open dumping as shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3.2\u003c/span\u003e. Thirty five percent of questionnaire respondents dispose waste through land filling and only 1% of waste is recycled.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee D revealed that:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Open burning and dumping of solid waste is rampant in Amaveni suburb due to erratic collection of waste by the Kwekwe city council.\u0026rdquo;(Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee C said\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Household solid waste collected from Amaveni suburb is landfilled at the outskirts of the suburb however there is a lot of waste dumped in open spaces\u0026rdquo;. (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers observed some waste dumps within the suburb and also visited the unsanitary landfill near the suburb. This information implies that there were improper solid waste management strategies employed in Amaveni suburb. The waste disposal methods used increased environmental and health risks within the suburb.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2 Health Impacts\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.1 Water Borne Diseases\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eResponding to the question on water borne diseases, Interviewee C said:\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncreasing illegal solid waste disposal in Amaveni is posing risks to people\u0026rsquo;s health as more and more flies breed in the dumpsites increasing the chances of cholera outbreak.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee D also revealed that\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Dumping of solid waste has polluted water sources in Amaveni and this has increased the risk of cholera in Amaveni suburb.\u0026rdquo;(Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study on water borne diseases confirms what previous researchers have established. For example in Ghana (Ashitey, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) and in Zimbabwe (Nyanzou and Jerie, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) found that improper disposal of solid waste can cause water borne diseases like cholera. Leachate from dumpsites may contaminate water sources and when this water is used by people without adequate treatment it can increase the risk of cholera outbreak (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.2 Vector Borne Diseases\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee C\u0026rsquo;s response on the question regarding health risks associated with solid waste management was:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Mosquitoes are breeding on decomposing solid waste dumped in open spaces increasing the risk of malaria in Amaveni suburb\u0026rdquo;. (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers also observed mosquitoes and house flies on waste dumps. Improper disposal of solid waste created breeding areas for vectors thereby increasing the risk of vector borne diseases. The findings of this study are in harmony with studies conducted in Tanzania (Palfrema, 2014), in Ghana (Ashitey, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) and in Masvingo, Zimbabwe (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) that concluded that poor solid waste management can promote breeding of mosquitoes thereby increasing cases of malaria.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.3 Respiratory Diseases\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn response to the question relating to respiratory diseases Interviewee C revealed that:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lsquo;Many residents burn solid waste in the suburb which produces a lot of smoke and this has caused many people to experience coughing problems.\u0026rsquo;(Except from interview, Amaveni suburb, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee D shared the same sentiments and said:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;A lot of smoke is produced in the suburb from burning of solid waste and many people are exposed to the risk of breathing the smoke resulting in coughs\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe information above implies that respiratory problems were associated with solid waste management in Amaveni suburb. The findings of this study corroborate with findings from studies in Brazil (Mahler et al., 2016) and in Malaysia (Aminuddin and Rahman, 2015) which established that waste workers and residents living near dump sites were at risk of breathing problems due to smoke from burning solid waste.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.4 Injury Problems\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eResponding to a question on injury problems, interviewee C stated that:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Waste pickers and many waste workers are cut by sharp objects at dump sites\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterviewee A concurred with the view above and said:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Waste workers often request for safety shoes and gloves to protect themselves from\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ecuts from broken glass and scrap metal.\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers also observed broken glass and scraps of metal within dumpsites during field observation. Information above confirms that injuries are associated with improper solid waste management in Amaveni suburb. Scraps of metal and broken glass are sharp objects; hence they increase the risk of cuts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study on injury risks are in line with other studies that have been carried out before. For example, in Latin America (Cruvinel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), in Sudan (Yadi, 2018) and in Zimbabwe (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) concluded that municipal waste workers and waste pickers experience cuts from sharp objects on dumpsites.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3 Environmental impacts\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3.1 Air pollution\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eMost of the questionnaire respondents (80%) agreed that solid waste strategies used in Amaveni were associated with air pollution as shown in Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3.1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3.1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEnvironmental problems\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEnvironmental risk\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNot agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNot sure\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAir pollution\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e80%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater pollution\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSoil pollution\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e97%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLoss of urban beauty\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe information from questionnaires concurred with information obtained through interviews. Interviewee D noted that:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Air pollution is one environmental risk associated with solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni since burning of solid waste is common\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers also observed a fire on one of the dumpsites within the Amaveni suburb emitting smoke into the atmosphere. The results of this study indicated that solid waste management strategies being used in Amaveni were resulting in air pollution. The finding on air pollution is in line with previous researches done in other places .For example in Kenya (Muniafu and Otiato, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e) and in Zimbabwe (Chireshe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) showed that burning of solid waste on dumpsites produced a lot of smoke that entered into the atmosphere. Instead of open burning other scholars like Atalia et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) suggested the use of incineration as it is associated with less air pollution. However, this method is expensive as alluded to by Khaza and Bhada-Tata, (2018)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3.2 Water Pollution\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe majority of questionnaire respondents (90%) agreed that water pollution was associated with illegal solid waste disposal as shown in Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3.1\u003c/span\u003e. Information from interviews was in harmony with information obtained through questionnaires. Interviewee D said:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The streams are clogged with plastics that are being thrown all over in Amaveni suburb\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSolid waste was observed in surface water sources as shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3.6\u003c/span\u003e. Thus water pollution was an environmental risk associated with solid waste management in Amaveni suburb..\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study corroborate with what was observed in other urban arrears. For example, studies in India (Alam et al. 2020) and in Zimbabwe (Jerie and Nyanzou, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) found that leachate from disposal sites polluted surface water. Water pollution may increase water treatment costs for the city council and can cause disease if people drink this water.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3.3 Loss of urban beauty\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe majority of questionnaire respondents (86%) agreed that poor solid waste management is associated with loss of urban beauty. Responses from questionnaires were in harmony with interviews. Interviewee D noted that:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The general outlook of Amaveni suburb is dirty due to illegal dumping of solid waste in open spaces.\u0026rdquo; (Excerpt from interview, Kwekwe, 2023)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe researchers observed solid waste illegally disposed on open spaces and this has reduced the aesthetic value of Amaveni suburb as shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3.7\u003c/span\u003e. This means solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni suburb were associated with loss of urban beauty. This finding confirms what other researchers have noted. For example, in Masvingo, Zimbabwe (Chireshe, (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e), established that the market value of properties near disposal sites in Mucheke and Rujeko suburbs was about 4% lower than those away from illegal disposal sites. In South Africa (Mangizvo an Mapindu, 2012 and in Uganda (Kinobe, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) noted that improper solid waste disposal results in loss of aesthetic value leading to low property values.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Conclusion and recommendations","content":"\u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eConclusion\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSolid waste was disposed through open burning, illegal dumping and unsanitary landfilling. Insignificant amount of waste was composted and recycled. Diseases such as cholera and malaria were health problems identified in Amaveni suburb. The main environmental problems identified included air pollution, water pollution and loss of urban beauty. Thus, solid waste management in Amaveni was not sustainable since it was not promoting Sustainable Development Goal 3 of good health and wellbeing and Sustainable Development Goal 6 of clean water and sanitation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eRecommendations\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe following recommendations were proposed to improve solid waste management:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe kwekwe city council should provide enough bins to promote segregation of waste at source.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Kwekwe city council should partner with donor agencies to construct a sanitary landfill.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe kwekwe city council should charge heavy penalties for violating waste management regulations to act as a deterrent and encourages compliance.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eResidents should participate in community initiatives. This involves engaging in community clean-up drives, recycling programs and awareness campaigns organized by the Kwekwe City Council.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eAll authors have read, understood, and have complied as applicable with the statement on\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026lsquo;Ethical responsibilities of Authors\u0026rsquo; as found in the Instructions for Authors and are aware that with minor exceptions, no changes can be made to authorship once the paper is submitted.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmato Chireshe and Muyambo Tafadzwa: Data collection and writing the original draft\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Jerie and Timothy Vurayayi Mutekwa: reviewing and analysis of the paper.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTakunda Shabani and Tapiwa Shabani: Writing of original draft\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to publish\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors agreed to publish the review\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict of Interest\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no conflict of interest\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable from the authors on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors participated and agreed to participate up to final revision of the manuscript\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApproval was granted by Midlands State University to carry out the research as well as to\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003epublish under its name. All sources were properly cited to avoid plagiarism.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNon applicable\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllsopp, M.; Costner, P. \u0026amp; Johnston, P. (2019). Incineration and human health. Greenpeace research Laboratories University of Exerter, UK\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlmasi, A., Mohammedi, M., Azizi, A., Berizi, Z., Shamsi, K., Shahbazi, A. \u0026amp;, Mosavi, S.A. (2019). Assessing the knowledge, attitude and practice of the Kermanshahi women towards reducing, recycling and reusing of municipal solid waste. Resource Conservation Recycling, 141: 329\u0026ndash;338.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmugsi, D.A., Mwangi, J.N., Haregu, T.N., Aboderini, I., Muindi, K. \u0026amp; Mberu, B.U. (2016). 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An assessment of solid waste system in Chandigarh City, India. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 20 (6): 1547\u0026ndash;1572.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUN., (2018) Sustainable Development Goal 6 Synthesis Report 2018 on Water and Sanitation.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWorld Bank (2012).What a waste: a global review of solid waste management.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZIMSTAT, (2022) Census 2022: Preliminary Report, Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, Harare Zimbabwe\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-environment","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Environment](https://www.springer.com/44274/)","snPcode":"44274","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44274/3","title":"Discover Environment","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Solid waste, Management strategies, Impacts, Kwekwe","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eImproper solid waste management is one of the causes of environmental and health problems in many cities worldwide. It is in this context that the study aimed to determine the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni suburbs in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe and assess the health and environmental problems associated with the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni. Researchers used a mixed method design in which quantitative and qualitative data was collected at the same time. Semi \u0026ndash;structured interviews, field observations and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised 380 Amaveni residents, 3 Kwekwe City employees and one EMA official. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically while quantitative data was analyzed using inferential statistics. Open dumping and open burning were the dominant solid waste management strategies in Amaveni. The main health problems identified were cholera and malaria. Air pollution, water pollution and loss of urban beauty were the main environmental problems identified. From the findings it can be concluded that solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni were associated with many health and environmental problems and as a result a sustainable solid waste management model was developed for Amaveni suburb.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-04-18 17:38:47","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4237197/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2024-05-15T08:44:32+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2024-05-12T13:29:22+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"327560661546333551973611585982359154095","date":"2024-05-11T13:14:56+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"223265178645364226773986243869568997130","date":"2024-05-04T15:37:22+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2024-05-02T09:21:58+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"a43fffd9-e122-457d-bac8-9cf7d35d85d5","date":"2024-04-26T14:10:48+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"36ab5b03-eae3-4ddf-8fe6-35b10f5a96cd_SNPRID","date":"2024-04-26T08:42:58+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2024-04-20T14:50:20+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2024-04-10T05:56:31+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2024-04-10T05:54:49+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Environment","date":"2024-04-08T14:31:52+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-environment","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Environment](https://www.springer.com/44274/)","snPcode":"44274","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44274/3","title":"Discover Environment","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"7fa61116-54d9-4d6f-82ae-7cde5ded2af7","owner":[],"postedDate":"April 18th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2024-07-04T05:56:22+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-04-18 17:38:47","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-4237197","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-4237197","identity":"rs-4237197","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}