Lecturer and Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies in the University of Ghana Dr. Bob Manteaw has highlighted some key benefits of proper waste management on campus.
He was speaking in an exclusive interview with UniversNews on waste management on the University’s Campus.
University Campuses are avenues for the generation of a substantial amount of waste, which includes food scraps, packaging, paper, plastics, and even electronic devices. When mismanaged, this waste contributes to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and depletion of natural resources.
Considering how crucial the issue is, one of the ways that have been suggested to address these environmental problems globally is the practice of sustainable waste management practices.
Dr. Manteaw explained that by practising an integrated waste management plan, there would be a decrease in waste, which would create an environment with good sanitary conditions.
“If we manage our waste well by practising integrated waste management; thus recycling, segregating, reusing, then of course we would have less waste to deal with. Having less waste to deal with would also improve the hygiene and sanitation conditions on the campus, hence implying better health conditions for everyone.”
He also suggested the use of recycled products to generate income.
According to him, this would present both environmental and economical benefits to individuals on campus.
“On the other hand, if we also go into recycling or collecting our waste, then turning them into reusable products, then we can go out onto the market and sell some of them. Otherwise, we will face sanitation challenges and health problems. So there are definitely both environmental and economics and social benefits to good waste management.”
Dr. Manteo further highlighted more opportunities in waste management.
He advised students to take advantage of such opportunities in order to turn their waste into wealth.
“One way students can make money is by forming little cooperatives just to create an avenue to sensitize people on environmental issues. They can collect these wasted products and recycle them for the ready markets. People would always be willing to purchase them and they can make some money from such initiatives.”
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Story by | Brian Bebli-Dussey | univers.ug.edu.gh
