USING GEOSPATIAL APPROACH IN THE MAPPING OF SOLID WASTE DUMP SITES FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT IN MINNA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract Solid Waste is a serious problem in urban areas because most solid wastes are haphazardly dumped in most cases not in suitable areas. Minna town has the problem of solid waste dumping site identification. The objective of this study is to map the existing dumpsites in minna and to depict dumping sites which are environmentally sustainable. The data used are global positioning system (GPS) coordinates generated from the field. Proximity analyses, buffering and spatial distribution analysis of the dumpsite were carried out. The results indicate 25 meters, 50 meters and 100 meters distances of dumpsites to household, water courses and transportation routes. It further identified more suitable distance for dumpsite siting within settlements and built up areas in Minna town where there are least environmental and health risks. It is recommended that continuous monitoring of solid waste disposal be intensified to safeguard and minimize the environmental risk and human health problem as well.