Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the knowledge of the impact of dumpsites on the health and environmental quality of residents in Oluku community. Four research questions were raised to serve as a guide in the study.

The descriptive survey design was used in eliciting responses from the respondents. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data from a sample of 100 residents of Oluku community. The collected data was analyzed using simple percentage mean and frequency counts.

In the findings, it was observed that although residents have little idea on the environmental impact of having dumpsites close to residential areas due to the displeasing odor that comes from the dumpsites and the organisms such as pests and rodent which it attracts, they still have low knowledge on the health impact of dumpsites and how it contributes to water contamination and causes respiratory diseases. Based on the findings it was recommended that public enlightenment and campaign as well as introduction of environmental education at all levels of our education system can help create awareness on the negative health and environmental impact of dumpsites. This will help to discourage illegal dumping and the creation of open dumpsites and also create positive attitude towards disposal of wastes.