FROM LANDFILLS TO LIVELIHOODS: SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACTS OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Construction waste management (CWM) is vital for achieving sustainable development, particularly in rapidly urbanizing nations like Nigeria. This study investigates the socioeconomic and environmental implications of CWM practices in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, utilizing a mixed-methods approach that integrates survey data from 300 respondents, semi-structured interviews, and field observations. Results reveal that informal systems dominate CWM, handling 67% of waste, while advanced practices, such as recycling and reuse, are adopted by only 9% of respondents. Despite these limitations, recycling activities demonstrated significant socioeconomic potential, including strong positive correlations with job creation and livelihood improvement. Environmental modeling indicates that implementing recycling at 30% of construction sites could reduce landfill contributions by 45% and methane emissions by 6,000 tons annually. Key challenges include weak regulatory enforcement, inadequate infrastructure, financial barriers, and limited public awareness. Regional differences were evident: Lagos requires investment in large-scale recycling infrastructure, Abuja needs stricter regulatory enforcement, and Kano would benefit from targeted public awareness campaigns. This study applies the circular economy framework and sustainable livelihoods approach to highlight the potential of integrating informal waste handlers into formal systems, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and scaling public-private partnerships. It also emphasizes the role of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in enhancing waste tracking and management. These findings contribute to global discussions on sustainable waste practices and offer actionable insights for addressing CWM challenges in Nigeria and similar developing economies.