ABSTRACT
Food waste in landfills contributes to environmental damage, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. This study explores the environmental implications of food waste in the Oluku community, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The main aim of the study is to assess the level of awareness among residents regarding how food waste contributes to landfill usage and greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane. The objectives include examining residents' understanding of food waste, its impact on environmental degradation, and identifying effective strategies for reducing food waste in the community. The study was guided by five research questions related to food waste awareness, its environmental consequences, and socio-economic impacts.
24,523 was the estimated population of residents in Oluku Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, during the time of this research and a sample of 394 residents was selected using a multi-stage sampling method. The research instruments were validated, and reliability was confirmed using a split-half method of reliability. The data was analyzed using Cronbach's Alpha method, and a score of 0.82 was obtained, ensuring the consistency of the instrument. The study employed descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, to analyze demographic data and questionnaire responses. A 2-point Likert scale (Correct = 1, Wrong = 0) was used for knowledge-based questions, with a mean decision threshold of 0.5, where scores below 0.5 indicated low knowledge and scores of 0.5 or higher indicated high knowledge. For opinion-based questions, a criterion mean of 2.50 was applied, with items scoring above 2.50 accepted and those below 2.50 rejected.
The findings revealed that a significant number of residents in Oluku have low awareness of the environmental effects of food waste, particularly its contribution to landfill methane emissions. However, many respondents acknowledged that food waste disposal has environmental consequences. Additionally, food waste in the community was identified as a major contributor to environmental degradation, including water pollution and flooding risks. Socio-economic challenges such as health risks, increased waste management costs, and impacts on business activities were also noted. The study recommends strategies for improving waste management practices in Oluku, including the introduction of waste separation bins, public awareness campaigns, food donation initiatives, and government regulations to enforce proper waste disposal practices.
