RESEARCH PROPOSAL
PROGRAM:
Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety Master of Philosophy
(MPHIL) Thesis
NAME:
FELIX ADJEI DARKO
Student ID:
PG3464820/20754147
TITLE:
“Improper waste management and its impact on the environment of Oforikrom
Municipal Area”
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology College of Health
Sciences (KNUST)
School of Public Health (SPH), Department of Occupational and
Environmental Health and Safety (OEHS)
SUPERVISOR:
Prof. Evans Afriyie-Gyawu, PhD, MPH
POSITION:
Associate Professor of the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health
and Safety.
CONTENT
SUMMARY (one page!!) ................................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................ Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.1 Current State of Knowledge...........................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.1.1Overview of the problem ..................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.1.3 Literature on Specific I ...................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.1.5 Literature on II................................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.1.6 Literatue on Specific III .................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.2 Problem Statement & Rationale.....................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
1.3 Study Hypothesis, Conceptual framework &Theoretical basisОшибка!
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1.4 Study Questions .............................................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
2.0 GENERAL OBJECTIVE: ............................................ Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
2.1 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES ............................................. Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
3.0 DEFINITION OF TERMS ....................................... ....Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.0 STUDY METHODS ..................................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.1 Study Type & Design (justify why you chose these!!) ..Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.2 Study Site:(brief description, 1/2 -1 page!!....................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.2.1 District or Community X ................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.3 Study Population (explain inclusion and exclusion criteria)Ошибка!
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4.4 Sampling ........................................................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.4.1 Size calculation .................................................. Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.4.2 Method of Sampling ........................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.5 Study variables ...............................................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.5.1 Dependent Variable........................................................................................................7
4.5.2 Independent Variable......................................................................................................7
4.5.3 StudyVariables Table......................................................................................................7
4.6 Data Collection ..............................................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.6.1 Data Collection Techniques and Tools .............. Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.6.2.Data handling .................................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
4.6.3. Data analysis and reporting ............................. Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
5.0 ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS .................................. Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
6.0 EXPECTED OUTPUTS ............................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
7.0 ASSUMPTIONS OF STUDY .......................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
8.0 LIMITATIONS OF STUDY .........................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
9.0 RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF THE STUDY CONCLUSIONS . Ошибка! Закладка
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10.1 Application Possibilities of Study Findings/Who will use resultsОшибка! Закладка не
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10.2 Links to other ongoing studies .....................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
11.0 DISSEMINATION OF FINDINGS PLAN ................ Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
12.0 BUDGET AND TIME PLAN .................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
12.1Time plan ......................................................................Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
REFERENCES ................................................................... Ошибка! Закладка не определена.
APPENDICES……………………………………………………………………………………
Resume: Brief Research Team’s current activities and research experiences.Ошибка! Закладка
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10.4.1 Experience of key research staff (Brief Resume) .................... Ошибка! Закладка не
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SUMMARY
The improper waste management and its environmental impact of Oforikrom Municipal Area in
the Ashanti Region is enormous. It is evident that throughout history, mankind’s ability to live in
harmony with his environment has been dependent upon accessibility of resources. This has
witness tremendous attraction over the years from both domestic and international. A global call
to protect the environment in all form was then announce in the Mar del Plata Conference, 1977,
that all person no matter their status must protect the environment. By keep it clean in order to
have quality of air, water and beautiful environment, (United Nations, 1977). This paper critically
assesses the improper waste management and environmental consequences of the health of the
people in the Municipal. In particular, the level of public awareness, major contributing factors to
the improper disposal of waste and it environmental impact of the area.
Data were collected by the combination of structured questionnaires, direct field observation and
interview from key stakeholders including, the affected communities, residents, and all manner of
person in the municipal. Thus EPA, Sanitation unit, households, schools, hospitals, GWC and
some other institutions. In all, about one hundred and fifty (150) respondents were contacted. The
study involved the use of both qualitative and quantitative design (Mix) to gather the information.
Findings reveals that, level of awareness for sanitation is higher but limited dumpsite and storage
area in the communities for people to have access to proper disposal is a challenge. The results
from the regression analyses carried out on the impact assessment of the environment, health and
economic impact of the communities show that the infrastructural projects of waste management
is none-existing and it has brought challenges such as poor sanitation, pollution, and other health
effects. Also, the potentials for proper waste management have the capacity for job creation,
poverty reduction, economic growth and environmental stewardship concerning natural resources,
human health, economic growth, energy, transportation, agriculture, industry, and international
trade, and these factors are similarly considered in enforcing environmental policy but the general
transformation in waste management in the area is very low.
The study pointed out that if all the stakeholders such as the government, thus Municipal
Assembly, NGOs, individual and the general public are committed for proper waste management
it could create a worthy industries in the area by improving waste segregation, collection, storage
and disposal at the proper dumpsite, enhance image of the destination and intensify the level of
awareness.
The study recommends that stakeholders must improve and promote the awareness of programmes
and policies that would enable local participation and attainment of higher education that would
bring an environmental sanity in the communities; an expansion in the local industry to ensuring
massive job creation in these communities’ whereby there would be dustbins at every 30 steps
with means of separating waste/waste segregation. Recycling plant present in district. Waste trucks
routinely collect refuse to recommended landfill sites and recycling plants. Taxing mechanisms to
be earmarked for waste management. Reporting systems to be in place to check for offenders.
People to be aware of the effects of indiscriminate disposal of waste. Garbage to be both the
government and individual responsibility. The whole communities ensure that proper sanitation
measures are ensured. These would bring a reduction in the prevalence of malaria, cholera and
possibly eliminate floods.
KEYWORDS
Environmental policy, Waste Management, opportunities and challenge,
INTRODUCTION
Ghana is a typical example of a developing country, where waste management is
often characterized by inadequate financial and logistical arrangements, poor service coverage,
operational inefficiencies, dearth of skilled manpower , lack of enforcement of regulations, and
poor cultural attitudes to waste handling (Hardoy et al. ,2001, Pacione, 2005)
The escalating problem of solid waste disposal in Ghana is due to various factors. Problems such
as rapid urbanization, financial malpractices of local authorities, and lack of proper planning and
management of equipment for solid waste disposal have together exacerbated the already
intractable problem of solid waste disposal (Barbereyie, 2009).
Picture of waste along the road
In Ghana, municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is a serious national concern. Rapid
urbanization increases waste creation, exacerbating the SWM dilemma. Moh and Abd Manaf
(2014) estimate that the amount of solid waste rises in proportion to urban population growth and
material consumption rates. Cities throughout the world create 1.3 billion tons of solid garbage are
generated each year, with this figure expected to rise to 2.2 billion by 2050. (Hoornweg and BhadaTata 2012). An increase in trash generation necessitates an increase in waste management,
preparing a budget for solid waste management.
The
developed or highincome countries have made significant investments.
SWM refers to the collecting and disposal of solid waste. Inadequate waste management is a pro
blem in developing or low-income nations like Ghana.
Here in Ghana, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) and
numerous Chief Executives of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies have a huge
difficulty because of poor MSWM, which has direct and apparent consequences (MMDAs).
According to a report by the MLGRD (2010). Thus about 85 percent of household solid trash is
inappropriately disposed of in undefined areas. The National Environmental Sanitation Strategy
and Action Plan includes implementation strategies.
The study finds that waste poise a very highly complex and heterogonous environmental problem.
Moreover, neighbourhood characteristics of waste poise other associated challenges with
statistically significant effects, albeit dissimilar materials. Waste management are uniquely
situated to affect change in their surroundings. Sustainable municipal solid waste management
(MSWM) is a serious concern in cities across the world, with the situation worsening in most
developing nations, such as Ghana. The performance of IWM in Ghana is evaluated in this
research, utilizing the Oforikrom Municipality as a case study. The regulatory, legal, institutional,
and financial frameworks, as well as waste management technical capability, were investigated.
The study's methodology and research design was an exploratory and interpretative case study that
used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to analyze the data. According to
the conclusions of the study, Ghana has a strong institutional structure, adequate and
comprehensive legislation, bylaws, policies, and programs in place to address MWM. The main
aim was to develop a greater understanding of how the focus of stakeholder participation in waste
management in the country is primarily focused on waste collection, with no consideration given
to waste reduction, treatment, or final disposal. Furthermore, both the financial and technological
capabilities for waste management are grossly inadequate. Thus, enhancing the enabling
environment for sustainable MWM with a focus on the analyzed metrics should help Ghana
achieve its waste management goals by scaling up MWM performance especially on Oforikrom
Municipal Area.
CURRENT STATE OF KNOWLEDGE
Background to Research/Overview
Globally, the higher the economic development and rate of urbanization, the greater the amount of
waste produced (Levis et al., 2013). Global municipal waste (MW) generation levels are
approximately 1.7 billion tons per year. They are expected to increase to approximately 2.5 billion
tons per year by 2025 (Hoornweg and Bhada-Tata 2012). Developed countries, reported by Griffin
et al. (1999), generate waste of 85,000,000 tons per year with paper as the dominating component.
Developing countries' waste generating rate is 158,000,000 tons per year, with organic waste being
the primary component. Moreover, it is estimated that by 2025, the rate of waste generation in
developing countries would escalate to 480,000,000 tons per year while that of developed countries
would slightly increase to 86,000,000 tons per year. Waste generation drivers (urbanization,
economic development, among others) differ from region to region and even within cities of the
same region, which is the reason for variation in waste generation and composition. A study by
Asase et al. (2009) revealed that the city of London, Ontario- Canada has a higher per capita waste
generation (1.2 kg) than that of Kumasi (0.6 kg), Ghana’s second city. However, due to the large
population in Kumasi (1,889,934), the overall waste generated is higher than that of the London,
Ontario (352,395) with households recorded as the highest generator of waste in Kumasi. The
composition of waste in London, Ontario is dominated mainly with paper waste, and Kumasi has
organic waste as its primary waste component. Differences in waste composition are due to the
variations in living standards and lifestyles of people in the two cities. Palanivel and Sulaiman
(2014) discovered that the rate of waste generation in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, was
0.70kg/day/person as at 2004 but it is now 0.97 kg/day/person by weight 8 with an average density
of 311.73 kg/m3. This new rate the authors mentioned is within the generation rate of developing
countries.
Economic growth and rapid population growth are correlated with a much higher new rate of waste
generation (0.97kg/day/person). The higher waste generation is due to increase in the number of
consumers of final products and other human activities. Organic waste, especially mixed food
waste, accounts for most MW in Oman. Paper, plastic, and glass, respectively, in order of
dominance, are other waste components discovered in Oman. These findings are consistent with
earlier studies and the Gulf Cooperation Council that reported food waste as a large portion of
solid waste in developing countries. A related study in Malaysia discusses trends and the current
waste management system (Agamuthu et al. 2007). This study revealed that the daily generation
of waste increased from 13,000 tons in 1996 to 19,100 tons in 2006, with urban populations leading
waste generation. Increases are attributed to changes in consumption habits and increased
affordability of consumer goods. The study by Agamuthu et al. (2007) in Malaysia revealed that
organic waste is dominant in the waste composition, followed by paper and plastic waste. These
findings are consistent with findings in Bangalore city, India (Ramachandra and Bachamanda
2007). Households and commercial places are the primary sources of the generation with the
increasing rate of generation credited to educational, cultural, and consumption patterns. Paper and
plastic waste composition are higher in developed countries than in developing countries where
organic waste is dominant.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECT
One of the most popular current topic/debate is environmental impact, which has a close
relationship with the macro and micro economy, although this is not a strictly proportional
relationship (Greenwood & Holt, 2010). The lack of care toward the ecosystem in which an
economy develops has serious consequences, from the disappearance of species to the
indiscriminate consumption and depletion of natural resources.
Economic growth is one aspect of economic development that can either contribute in a positive
way to the proper waste management or it can subtract from economic and community
development with increased sprawl, pollution, rising utility and service costs, and increased crime,
creating a drain on public services (Greenwood & Holt, 2010).
The impacts of poor waste management on sustainable development According to Maas and Liket
(2011), generally refer to the effects caused by an poor organization or an intervention (policy,
program, project, product, technology or measure) that occur outside the society or the natural
environment
The UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) describes research consequence as “an effect
on, change or benefit to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the
environment or quality of life, beyond academia” (REF, 2016, para. 1). For Koehn and Uitto (2014,
p. 624), the consequences of sustainability initiatives consist of “real-world changes in ecological
sustainability, policies, and people’s well-being.” Thomas and Ormerod (2017) differentiate
between traditional WM consequences (e.g. scholarly influence) and its impacts on public health.
Sustainability activities in these core elements (WM) cause overall social, environmental and
economic consequences (Gupta and Singhal, 2017). Consequences on Social Development
materialize along complex pathways, particularly in the area of environment and economy (Koehn
and Uitto, 2014). They can be direct and indirect, intended and unintended and positive and
negative; they may present themselves after a significant time lag, at a distance from the choked
location, or (Lebeau and Cochrane, 2015). The limited participation has originated from coordination and collaboration problems that exist among the three stakeholders in solid waste
management, namely- the communities (households), the public (government) and the private
sector. In Kabwe town of Central Province of Zambia, there is a lot of waste generated with little
and, in some instances no indication of public concern in containing the problem. Closer
involvement and/or household participation is very important in order to achieve sustainable waste
management. (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2015). Waste traditionally has been seen as having
no value. In a resource-efficient economy and society, the term „waste‟ would refer only to those
residual materials that have absolutely no potential to be utilized and, therefore, economic value.
Under this definition, traditionally „valueless‟ streams of waste can be considered resources for a
new tier of the economy. They can be recovered (or prevented from being lost) through greater
efficiency and management at every stage of production and consumption. Even some hazardous
or toxic materials may be recycled or rerefined for reuse (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2015). The
scale of public participation in solid waste management is noticeably different between the
developed and developing countries (Oberlin, 2011). In developed countries, household
participation in solid waste management may go as far as sorting of the waste generated. The
private firms then collect the already sorted waste at a fee. The fees paid cover up for the processes
in which the public should have participated in the waste management process. In other words, the
burden is passed on to the private waste collectors at a fee (Oberlin, 2011). Success story of
sustainable solid waste management is reported in a case study in Nepal with European Union
funding. This involved activities such as expansion of house-to-house waste collection,
employment generation for community members for street sweeping and addition of 58 new
dumpsters. It also involved the installation of organic waste compost machine, creation of landfill
which replaces dumping of waste at the river bank, gutters and public private partnership in waste
management. (Practical Action Nepal, 2008).
ECONOMIC MATRIX
In Africa, Haynes (2008) uses the theory of complexity to described acknowledges periods of
stability, but holds that an organism (society) must continue to change with its environment in
order to thrive and not even just to survive. When looking at university communities and economic
development in Africa, the use of complexity theory enables the examination of a waste
management system as a whole through interactions of policy, implementation, and changes within
and external to the community (Haynes, 2008). As described by Haynes (2008), complexity theory
recognizes that individuals are subservient to society but also have the power to contribute or
influence the future and structure of that society. Applying complexity theory to a waste policy
system in Africa is a holistic approach that has a focus “as much on evaluating an evolving policy
process as it is on the ends of current outputs and outcomes of policy” (Haynes, 2008).
The concept of Circular Economy (CE) is about an industrial economy that promotes greater
resource productivity to reduce waste to avoid pollution by design or intention, in which material
flows are of two types namely; (i) biological nutrients, designed to re-enter the biosphere, and (ii)
technical nutrients, which are designed to circulate while maintaining quality in the production
system without entering the biosphere as well as being restorative and regenerative by design
(Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2015). They can be recovered (or prevented from being lost)
through greater efficiency and management at every stage of production and consumption. Even
some hazardous or toxic materials may be recycled or rerefined for reuse (Ellen MacArthur
Foundation, 2015). In one way or linear economy little effort is made to reduce the amount of
materials consumed in production and hence the wastes are produced (Mohanty , 2011). Also, little
effort is made to reuse or recycle those wastes which mainly go for landfill. The study looked at
the geographic occurrence of each category of metropolitan area they cannot be considered typical
since the diversity of metropolitan areas is so great (Lang & Dhavale, 2004).
COMMUNITY AND HOUSEHOLD PARTICIPATION
In many parts of the world, communities continue to be looked at as passive recipients of
government services and are very often disregarded even in local decision-making processes
(Tadesse, 2006). In the presence of several solid waste management methods, participation could
be a missing link for better solid waste management. There is also growing consensus regarding
the immediate stakeholders in the issue of solid waste. The generators of waste, in this case the
residents need to join hands with the authorities in dealing with this problem that has far-reaching
environmental and human health effects. Particularly, waste volumes have increased in urban areas
due to the growing urban population, concentration of industries, consumption of residents and
inadequate finance and facilities to manage waste collection and disposal (NEMA, 2007). This
state of affairs has led to the volume of solid waste generated to go beyond what the available
facilities can accommodate. There has been greater involvement of individuals, communities and
non-government organizations who have to take initiatives not only to manage the waste, but to
turn it into a resource (create employment) (Greater Chennai Corporation , 2016). All
communities, and especially those that are most affected, have a critical role to play in waste
management services.
The study by Liyala (2011), of Kisumu in Kenya clearly illustrates the solid waste management
financing dilemma due to inability by a large percentage or urban community to pay for waste
collection services due to low income levels in the East African Community (EAC) region.
Therefore, households without waste collection service have to develop their own waste
management systems. The most common household waste management methods identified are
waste burning and backyard burying or indiscriminate open dumping, Liyala (2011), Oberlin
(2011), Okot-Okumu and Nyenje (2011).
Household participation may for instance increase awareness and capacities, may improve the
ability to negotiate as equals with authorities and other stakeholders to promote common
objectives, and increase responsiveness to conflicts within the community. Household
participation may give people the opportunity to devise and initiate strategies to improve their
situation. Apart from individual responsibility, households can be collectively responsible in more
or less organised activities, like meetings, clean-up campaigns, and awareness-raising activities
(Colon & Fawcett, 2006). Furthermore, household participation may involve making material,
financial or physical contributions to activities of solid waste management, for instance working
as cart operator or sweeper, and paying fees for waste collection. As recycling increases, there will
be a growing supply of materials generated. In order to utilize these recycled materials,
manufacturing facilities will emerge to find uses for them. As more recycling plants are built and
more products are manufactured, there is a greater understanding of the entire process.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
Despite the vast research on options to improve waste management (WM) in country, little has
been done to evaluate these possible improvements in OfkMA. Trash still lingers on the street and
communities in OfkMA due to improper waste disposal. This has increase pollution of air, water
and the environment leading to toxicity, increase solid and liquid waste endocrine disruption, etc.
RESEARCH/STUDY QUESTIONS
The study will seek to offer answers to the following questions:
1. What causes the improper waste management in the Municipality?
2. What are the overall environmental and health consequences on the communities?
3. What are the social and cultural factors hindering/responsible improper waste management in
the OfkMA?
OBJECTIVES
The main objective of this study is to assess the cause, effect or impact of improper waste
management in the Oforikrom Municipal Area. While specifically, our objectives largely depend
on
1. The general cause of improper waste management.
2. The environmental and health consequence of improper waste management.
3. The social and cultural factors hindering/responsible for improper waste management in the
OfkMA
Definition of terms:
Improper waste disposal is the disposal of waste in a way that has negative consequences for the
environment
Environmental: the natural landscape together with all of its non-human features, characteristics
and process that includes individual, object, element, or system of a surroundings.
Economical: the minimum amount of time, effort, or language that is necessary functioning to
make effective use of money or effort invested.
Social: the activities in which you meet and spend time with other people and that happen during
the time when you are not working or studying thus organisms that including humans, live
collectively in interacting populations.
Health: the condition of the body and the degree to which it is free from illness, or the state of
being well, thus something that changes or develops, such as an organization or system
Safety: the condition/degree of not being in danger, at risk, harm, depress or worried
Development: is the process by which the economic well-being and quality of life of a nation,
region, local community, or an individual are improved according to targeted goals and objectives
Consequences: a result or effect, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant or importance or
relevance or something that happens as a result of a particular action or set of conditions
Metropolitan: a region consisting of a densely populated urban core and its less-populated
surrounding territories under the same administrative jurisdiction, sharing industries, commercial
areas, transport network, infrastructures and housing
Sanitation: Sanitation refers to public health conditions related to clean drinking water and
'treatment and disposal of human excreta and sewage.
Education: the process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values,
morals, beliefs, habits and personal development. Educational methods include teaching, training,
storytelling, discussion and directed research.
RESEARCH METHODS, DESIGN AND APPROACH
This section describes the research design used for the study. This includes research method and
approach, sample population, proposed data collection methods, ethical considerations, and role
of the researcher. The research strategy can further be described as being not only descriptive but
also explorative in nature. Explorative studies on one hand are meant to examine a new area to
later develop precise questions for further research. Descriptive studies on the other hand deal with
a known and well-defined subject and use a study to give an accurate description and then receive
a detailed picture of a certain topic (Neuman 2007: 16).
As stated earlier, the aim of this study is to assess the cause, effect/impact of improper waste
management in the OfkMA. A quanlitative approach is most appropriate method of inquiry to
gather information that is representative of the population of interest. According to Lavrakas
(2008), cross-sectional design enables the collection of data and the drawing of inferences about
the population of interest in a specified period of time and this study to be conducted satisfies the
requirements for a cross-sectional study. The study will also employ a quantitative approach in
order to provide estimates of the general population, measure the level of actions and provide
results that is precise, definitive and can be standardized (Sukamolson, 2007).
STUDY SITE
Kumasi is the 2nd largest city in Ghana the West African first independent state after the national
capital city, Accra. Kumasi is located in the transitional forest zone and is about 270 km north of
the national capital. It is between latitude 6.35–6.40 and longitude 1.30–1.35o, an elevation that
ranges between 250 and 300 m above sea level with an area of about 254 km2. The average
minimum temperature is about 21.5 C and a maximum average temperature of 30.7 C. The average
humidity is about 84.16% at 0900 GMT and 60% at 1500 GMT. The city has a double maxima
rainfall of 214.3 mm in June and 165.2 mm in September.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Area has been estimated to have a daytime population of about 2 million.
It has been projected to have a population of 3, 490,030 according to GSS 2021 population and
housing census based on a growth rate of 4.24% per annum. The growth of industries and the large
volume of commercial activity in and around Kumasi as well as the high migrant number may
account partly for the relatively high urban population. The Metropolis falls within the wet subequatorial type (Ghana districts, 2008).
POPULATION
The population of interest is in the Ashanti Region which is the second highest populous region,
(GSS 2021) of a population size of 17.6% representing 5,440,463 of 2,679,914 male and
2,760,549 with residual of urban settlement 3,353,850 and rural settlement of 2,086,613. The
Oforikrom Municipal is of a 213,126 population which form part of the greater Kumasi
Metropolis. A sample size of a sub-population within and around KNUST, 150 selected for the
study from natives, students, staff and residents within these communities due to limited time of
the study. The study population will thus be recruited from age 18 years and older within the
Kumasi Metropolitan particularly Oforikrom Municipality. Residents not within the Municipality
and persons less than 18 years of age at the time of data collection will be excluded from the
study
SAMPLE SIZE ESTIMATION
A sample size of one hundred and fifty (150) persons was purposively chosen from a study
population of 213,126 population within a 10% margin of error, following the sampling formula
of no= (Z2pq/d2), and n= (no/(1+(no/N), adopted by Cochran. Individuals recruited for this
study included key management and other staff members from the above-mentioned health
institutions who had worked in various jobs for various years.
Method
Variable
Sample size
Qualitative interviewing
WM unit
Waste Carriers
EPA
LandLords
Business owners
Bomso Residents
Ahinsan Residents
Ayeduase
Kotei
Ayigya
3
5
2
35
5
25
15
25
10
25
(stratify sampling)
Self-Completion
questionnaire
(stratify sampling)
150
Total
Sampling Technique
Sampling is a necessary element in research in order to ensure that the selected sample is
representative of the population of interest (Taherdoost, 2020). The sampling method that will be
employed is the stratified sampling method. According to Frey (2018), stratified sampling allows
division of participants in smaller subgroup who are ready and easily available to be involved in
the research. This will allow for easy collection of data without complications.
Study Variable
The study variable are cause and effect relationship of independent and dependent variables (Frey,
2018). These are the environmental and economic consequence that include the costs and benefits
of alternative environmental policies to deal with air pollution, water quality, toxic substances,
solid waste, and global warming, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, pollution, traffic congestion,
noise etc.
Dependent Variable: Environmental and Economic Consequences
Independent Variables: air pollution, water quality, toxic substances, solid waste, and global
warming, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, pollution, traffic congestion, noise etc.
Logical Framework
To assess the improper waste To examine health effect and
Objective
management
and
its environmental consequence
associated with.
environmental impact.
Dependent Variable
Impact of waste on the Waste segregation, storage,
environment and health collection/transport
and
effect
dump
Air
pollution,
water Unemployment, high rate of
pollution, flooding etc
prevalence
of
tropical
diseases
flooding
and
Conceptual Definition of Sanitary problems, comm- Disease,
unity development, job oppo- recklessness
Dependent Variable
rtunity etc.
Nominal; high, Low
ordinal
Scale of measurement
Rate, effect, impact
degree
Indicators
Questionnaire
Interview
Data Collection Method
Mix method
Type of Statistical Analysis Descriptive
Independent Variable
DATA COLLECTION TOOLS
Interviewer administered questionnaire will be employed in the study to produce more desirable
responses to questions involving improper waste management and environmental impact
(Okamoto et al, 2002). Interviewer administered questionnaires allows for researchers to offer
clarification for more complex questions (Ng, 2006)
DATA HANDLING AND MANAGEMENT
Data collected from respondents will be submitted into an online survey creator which will be later
entered into Microsoft excel. Proper data handling and management is an essential component in
ensuring that a statistical analysis can be reproduced and as such data collected will be stored in
appropriate data facilities to prevent loss through accidents.
DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION
Cleaned and coded data from Microsoft excel application will be transferred STATA statistical
software for analysis. Analyzed data will be represented in the form of frequencies, tables and
figures. Analyzing the data collected involved multiple steps: reading and examining, categorizing,
coding for themes, and searching for patterns, insights, and connections (Patton, 2012; Yin, 2014).
There are several challenges with the analysis of mix data, including the lack of set guidelines or
formulas, combined with the massive amount of data associated with qualitative and quantitative
studies.
As data was collected, the detail of the data (source, date) was recorded in the data collection
database. Computer software, Microsoft excel, was used in the analysis portion of the study.
Documents, transcripts, and photographs were analysed through the use of the software to enable
me to engage in constant comparison analysis and refine coding structures as the research
progressed. Yin (2014) and Swanborn (2010) suggested several activities to help with the analysis
step, including comparing data from interviews, placing data into categories, creating data displays
(flowcharts or graphics), looking at the frequency of events or ideas, and constructing a timeline.
Because of the large volume of data collected, it was scanned and uploaded or directly downloaded
from websites to a secure computer and organized into folders based on the type of data. Interviews
were coded by participant numbers to maintain confidentiality. The codes were words or short
phrases reflecting topics, issues, or concepts. This process, known as open coding, was a relatively
exhaustive effort to identify the nature of the information and enable further organization into
categories (Silverman & Patterson, 2015).
Using constant comparison, codes were combined and organized until meanings, connections, and
relationships were clear. Additional coding was performed using a set of predeveloped codes based
on the research questions and the theoretical framework of complexity theory. These reviews and
the finalization of codes took some days to achieve because of the volume of data and the number
of research questions in the study. Use of this approach enabled me to develop ideas and insights
through the iterative process and organize them into categories to provide understanding of the
relationship between economic and community development policies and the influences on the
policymaking process.
When selecting what themes or categories to be used in analysis, it is appropriate to consider the
research questions and sub-questions and to assure that the coded data used is relevant and
embodies information the message from the study (Denzin & Lincoln, 2013). I identified
descriptions and facts within the case that address the research questions and classified them into
categories or themes. Data was organized into categories and interpreted to form conclusions that
contribute to the understanding of policy interactions and influences and lessons evident from the
data concerning policymaking in small cities.
The next step in the process was for me to diagram the relationships that were identified by the
data analysis process. Diagrams are useful in aiding a researcher to develop a narrative describing
the results of the research (Silverman & Patterson, 2015). Some difficulty was experienced in this
step, which necessitated that I return to the categories and coding to review the data again and to
clarify understandings and relationships. The diagrams were used to solidify my understanding
and help guide the writing of results. Diagrams can illustrate results, or relationships between in
support of the written narrative to aid comprehension. Such diagrams and table presentations show
the relationship of codes to themes and categories, summarize findings, and illustrate conclusions.
Use of multiple sources and types of data enabled the use of triangulation and examination of
discrepant data to establish credibility. In addition, member checking and the diversity of
participants to include a variety of perspectives, combined with the use of rich, thick description
provides a basis for dependability and transferability.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
As a researcher, much attention was paid to the Committee on Human Research, Publication, and
Ethics (CHRPE) guidelines which states that “researcher should try to minimize disturbance both
to themselves and the subject’s relationship with their environment” (Bryman, 2008: 118). This
helped in selection of the research methods. With regards to the participant observation efforts
were made to see to it that data collection in any way could not hinder the smooth day-to-day
operations of the local communities in their various endeavours in relation to their use and benefits
derive to enhance their livelihood. The issue of exhibiting good morals in approaching people and
maintaining confidentiality of records was also adhered to (Bryman, 2008) in order to build trust
and confidence in the participants especially with regards to collection of data. A written informed
consent obtained from all participants. Ethical clearance sought from the human research,
publications and ethics committee of the School of Medicine and Dentistry of the Kwame
Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Approval from the district health directorate
before the study commence. Data protected to ensure anonymity. Also, indicators that may lead to
the identification of respondents from information obtained will be removed to ensure that data
cannot be tracked backed to them.
EXPECTED OUTPUT/COME
To enable stakeholders and OEHS professionals to provide the needed support to help bridge the
gap and solve the waste management and environmental effects/problems on the communities and
shape the lives of the future generations of the district and the country at large.
This study provides useful information for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, especially
the MA, all stakeholder and those whose remit includes the protection of the environment, waste
menegemt and economic growth for a healthy population.
STUDY’S LIMITATIONS
The study has limitations, such as the research approach. Qualitative studies are not ideal for
generalizations. Therefore, a generalization of the findings should be used with caution. The
sample selected would be used as a representation of the entire population to ensure the validity of
the results. In contrast, the fact that the study limits the population is in itself a limitation. Not
forgetting, the time factor required to reach the majority of the respondents was limited due to the
shortness of the period for the study.
VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY
Validity refers to the extent to which a measuring instrument measures what it is intended to
measure (Suruci and Maslacki, 2020). To ensure content validity, the tool will be submitted to my
research supervisor and other lecturers in order to obtain their expert opinions to ensure
appropriateness (Rubio et al, 2003). Reliability deals with the ability of the measuring tool to
produce consistent results over time or when applied during different periods to have it rigor (Heale
and Twycross, 2015). Reliability will be ensured by applying methods consistently and
standardizing the conditions of the research.
APPLICATION POSSIBILITIES OF STUDY FINDINGS/WHO WILL USE RESULTS
The Study is purely for the fulfilment of master’s requirement for the award of Master Degree in
Public Health specialization in Occupational and environmental Health and Safety.
FINDINGS DISSEMINATIONS
Once this research project is completed, it would then be submitted and archived by the University
Library and consequently publish by the university in her e-library and made available to all person
in the academia, stakeholders, students, researchers in national, regional and global.
RESEARCH OUTLINE
The study has five chapters. In each of the individual chapters, the scope and activities are to be
carried out.
Chapters
Chapter 1: The chapter one has to do with the general introduction. The following are seen in
chapter one as follows: Introduction of the study, Background of the study, Objectives of the study,
the research question of the study, Significance of the study, Scope of the study, and limitations of
the study
Chapter 2: This chapter would be limited to the relevant information on waste management
and environmental literature. This includes concepts of the waste, theories of the environment, and
empirical data available in this study from global perspective, Africa as regional and Ghana as
national with emphasis on Oforikrom Municipal Area as local.
Chapter 3: Much consider would be laid in chapter three which is the research methodology.
This include Research Method, Research Purpose and Questions, Design of the Study, Qualitative
Research Method, Justification of the Case Study Approach, Sampling for the Study, Research
Approach, Data Collection Techniques and Tools/Instruments, Pre-Testing and Review of
Instrument, Data Collection, Quality Control, Data Processing and Analysis, Theory Development
and Theoretical Assumptions, Validity and Reliability ,Construct Validity, Internal Validity,
External Validity, Reliability, Data Analysis, Informed Consent, Privacy, Anonymity And
Confidentiality, Risk and Benefits of the Study
Chapter 4: Chapter four would also deal with data collection, presentation, analysis, and
discussion of results
Chapter 5: Finally, the chapter five section would be concluding chapter to cover summary,
conclusion, and recommendation.
Budget and Expense
Since the study is purely academicals, much expense is reduced to avert hardship on the researcher
since there is no funding for it. But it shall bore a little expense not exceeding GH₵ 5,000
Item
Unit
Cost
Total
Transportation
10
100
1000
Stationaries
4
500
500
Food
30 packs
50
1500
Incentives
150
5
1500
Data/credit
500
500
Total
GH₵
5,000
Time Frame
Approximately three months are allotted for this study due to resource and academic requirement.
Chapter One 3435 word first draft by 1st August 2021 and edited by 20th August 2021. The
Chapter two, 5302 words first draft in 29th August 2021 and edited by 22nd September 2021.
Chapter three 4784 words first draft by 1st November 2021 and edited by 15th November 2021.
The chapter four first draft by 25th November 2021 and edited by 15th December 2021. The
chapter five first draft by 26th December 2021 and edited by 5th January 2022. The final edit by
8th January 2022 and submitted by 15th January 2022.
ACRONYM
3R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle CBD: Central Business District
CO: Carbon monoxide
CO2: Carbon dioxide MSWM: Municipal Solid Waste Management
EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment
Bibl iography
1. Boateng, S., Amoako A., Poku A. A., Appiah, D. (2016) Household Willingness To Pay
For Solid Waste Disposal Services In Urban Ghana: The Kumasi Metropolis Situation
2. Fagariba, J. C. and Song, S., (2016) Assessment of impediments and factors affecting
waste management: A case of Accra Metropolis
3. McAllister, Jessica, (2015) Factors influencing solid-waste management in the
developing world