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Source-separation is a solid waste management strategy which aids recycling. This concept is relatively new in Nigeria. The study therefore assessed the effects of a training intervention, education and awareness and provision of a refuse bin on workers' practice of -separation. A validated questionnaire with a 5-point knowledge scale was used to collect data at baseline from two groups made of the Experimental Group (EG) (180) and Control Group (CG) (168) workers respectively in the University of Ibadan on source-separation of solid wastes. A fabricated waste bin with three compartments was placed only at the EG and the workers there were trained on its utilization for source-separation of solid wastes. The CG was left to continue with the usual practice of waste collection without source-separation. At the end of the onemonth intervention, a post-intervention data collection from the two groups was conducted with the same questionnaire used at baseline. Descriptive statistics and t-test were used to analyse data. Findings revealed that the training and provision of a collection bin was effective in facilitating the practice of source-separation among the Experimental Group. Therefore, advocacy, training and provision of refuse bins are needed to promote the adoption of source-separation in the institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inappropriate solid waste management practices in schools in less-developed countries, particularly in major urban communities, constitute one of the major factors leading to declining environmental health conditions. The objective of the authors' descriptive, cross-sectional study was to assess solid waste management problems in selected urban schools in Ibadan, Nigeria. Eight secondary schools with average pupil populations not less than 500 per school were selected randomly. Four hundred questionnaires (50 per school) were administered. In addition, an observational checklist was used to assess the physical environment. Paper and plastics were the most frequently generated wastes. Common methods of solid waste disposal reported were use of dustbins for collection and open burning. Major problems perceived with current refuse disposal methods by the study students were odors, pest infestation, and spillages. Littering and spillages of solid waste were also common features reported. Data suggested inadequate waste management facilities and practices in study schools. The lack of refuse bins may have contributed to waste spillages and the burning practices. Odors may have arisen from both the decay of overstored organic waste rich in moisture and emissions from refuse burning. This scenario poses a community environmental health nuisance and may compromise school environmental quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]