Ecosystem Based Approach to Solid Waste Management in Kenya

Abstract

The composition and amount of solid waste being generated in Kenya has been on the increase. This can partly be attributed to changing urban lifestyles, resource consumption patterns, improving income levels and other socio-economic and cultural issues. Thus, new approaches in handling these wastes need to be introduced to cope with their increase. This study has triangulated its findings through various literature reviews, interviews and field survey observations. It provides documentary evidence on the level of conditions and level of practice in solid waste management in Kenya. The findings indicate that only about 30 % of the 100,000 tones of solid waste generated in Kenya is collected and transported to the dumpsite. Residents do not separate waste at household level and burning is a common mode of disposal. The findings affirm to the need for a change in management regimes to become more commercially viable, adaptive and inclusive. There is also need for a sociocultural attitude change among the residents at household level.