Africa review report on waste management : main report

Abstract

The typology of wastes generated in Africa from point and non-point sources encompass industrial, agricultural, sewage, domestic, municipal and other wastes including wastes from the medical, nuclear, electrical and electronic industry. These wastes are either non-hazardous or hazardous. Specific data relating to waste generation and characterisation in African countries is generally lacking. Household waste in Africa contains food waste (biodegradable/compostable), sand, gravel, paper, plastic, metals (e.g. aluminium) and glass (the last four components are recoverable, reusable and recyclable). Plastic is a major nuisance in municipal solid waste which degrades the environment, clogs drains and causes flooding in the rainy season.