UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
RESEARCH PAPER
IMPROPER WASTE DISPOSAL ON THE PUBLIC HEALTH IN COMMUNITIES
Submitted by:
Lensagan, Jean Mikaela
BS ECE- 1A
Sir Leovigildo Leo Mallillin
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Introduction
waste disposal presents critical challenges to both public health and
environmentalsustainability. Communities around the world struggle with the
consequences of inadequate waste management practices, which lead to air,
water, and soil contamination. These environmental hazards contribute
significantly to the spread of diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups such
as children and the elderly. Research has highlighted that improper waste disposal
can result in respiratory illnesses, waterborne diseases, and other health
complications (Raphela et al., 2024; WHO, 2024). Furthermore, the accumulation
of waste in public areas creates ideal breeding grounds for pests, exacerbating
health risks (Akmal & Jamil, 2021). Without effective intervention, the risks posed
by improper waste disposal continue to grow, harming the well-being of individuals
and communities alike.
In addition to its direct effects on public health, improper waste disposal has far-
reaching environmental consequences. Contaminated water sources, soil
degradation, and the emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere are common
outcomes of poor waste management practices. These factors disrupt ecosystems
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
and contribute to climate change, amplifying their impact on human health. Proper
waste segregation and recycling can significantly reduce the burden on landfills
and minimize pollution, as emphasized by Akmal and Jamil (2021). Furthermore,
raising awareness about responsible waste disposal behaviors empowers
communities to adopt healthier practices (Abubakar et al., 2022). Collaborative
efforts among governments, organizations, and individuals play a pivotal role in
mitigating these challenges (WHO, 2024)
The objectives of this research are to assess the impact of improper waste
disposal on public health, examine the environmental consequences of poor waste
management, identify the factors contributing to improper waste disposal in
communities, and propose solutions for improving waste management and public
health. By addressing these objectives, this study seeks to provide actionable
insights that can inform policies and practices aimed at creating healthier and
more sustainable communities. The integration of public awareness, policy
reforms, and innovative solutions will be essential to combat improper waste
disposal effectively and enhance the quality of life for affected communities.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Review Of Related Literature
Impact of Improper Waste Disposal on Public Health
Waste mismanagement has long been associated with severe public health
risks, particularly in vulnerable communities. Kalua et al. (2023) investigated the
consequences of inadequate waste disposal in informal settlements and found a
direct correlation between poor waste management and the spread of infectious
diseases. In areas with limited waste collection services, residents often resort to
unsafe disposal methods, such as illegal dumping, which contaminates water
sources and creates breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors like
mosquitoes and rodents. This leads to outbreaks of waterborne and vector-borne
diseases, including cholera, typhoid, malaria, and dengue. The study highlights the
urgent need for improved waste collection infrastructure and public health
education to mitigate these risks.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Similarly, Zand and Heir (2020) focused on the dangers of improper medical
waste disposal, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their research in
Isfahan, Iran, revealed that healthcare facilities with insufficient waste segregation
and disposal systems posed significant risks to both healthcare workers and the
general population. The study identified key factors such as inadequate training,
lack of infrastructure, and weak regulatory enforcement as major contributors to
increased exposure to pathogens and toxic chemicals. Improper medical waste
disposal was found to contribute to environmental contamination, further
exacerbating public health challenges. The findings emphasize the need for
stricter policies, proper waste segregation practices, and comprehensive training
programs for healthcare personnel.
Ed-Idoko et al. (2024) explore the detrimental effects of improper waste disposal
on surface and groundwater quality. The study emphasizes that pollutants,
including chemicals and biological agents, degrade water resources, posing
significant health risks to humans, animals, and ecosystems. Pathogens from
human and animal waste are identified as primary contributors to illnesses linked
to contaminated drinking water. The researchers advocate for measures such as
recycling plastics, proper disposal of chemicals and non-biodegradable items, and
effective waste collection and treatment to mitigate water pollution and protect
aquatic environments.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Environmental Consequences of Poor Waste Management
Poor waste management has severe environmental consequences, affecting
ecosystems, public health, and climate stability. Mor and Ravindra (2023) highlight
the significant environmental degradation caused by disorganized waste
collection, transportation, and disposal in lower- and middle-income countries. The
study emphasizes that improper waste handling leads to pollution of land and
water resources, emission of greenhouse gases, and overall ecosystem
degradation. Without an efficient waste management system, these negative
effects persist, worsening environmental damage over time.
Similarly, Osazee and Gupta (2021) examine the impact of inadequate landfill
management, stressing that poor disposal practices contribute to preventable
illnesses and deaths. Landfills, particularly those lacking proper containment and
treatment, emit substantial amounts of carbon dioxide and methane—both potent
greenhouse gases. Municipal solid waste accounts for nearly 5% of global
greenhouse gas emissions, with landfill methane contributing 12% of total
methane emissions worldwide. The study suggests repurposing landfills for energy
production as a sustainable solution while highlighting emerging waste treatment
technologies that can reduce environmental risks.
Chisholm et al. (2021) extend the discussion to medical waste management,
identifying inadequate segregation, transportation, and treatment of medical waste
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Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
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as major environmental hazards. The study finds that hazardous materials such as
pharmaceuticals, pathogens, and toxic chemicals often leak into the environment,
contaminating soil and water sources. This contamination not only disrupts
biodiversity but also threatens human health. The authors advocate for stricter
regulations, modern disposal technologies, and public awareness initiatives to
minimize the harmful effects of medical waste on the environment.
Factors Contributing to Improper Waste Disposal in Communities
Improper waste disposal remains a major challenge in many communities,
driven by socio-economic, infrastructural, and behavioral factors. Key contributors
include inadequate public awareness, weak waste management infrastructure,
and poor policy enforcement, all of which heighten environmental and health
risks.
Eshete et al. (2023) highlight that a lack of public awareness and education
prevents proper waste management, as many individuals fail to recognize its
consequences. Inadequate waste collection services lead to accumulation, forcing
residents to resort to open dumping and burning. The absence of proper disposal
infrastructure, such as bins and recycling centers, worsens the issue, especially in
low-income areas. Cultural norms, rapid urbanization, and weak policy
enforcement further contribute to ineffective waste management. The study calls
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
for stronger regulations, public education, and improved infrastructure to address
these challenges.
Similarly, Dhivya and Williams (2024) examine improper waste disposal in
Puducherry, India, linking it to rapid urbanization and overwhelmed waste
management systems. Insufficient waste collection and disposal infrastructure
result in widespread waste accumulation, while public non-compliance
exacerbates environmental and health risks. The study also highlights the
shortage of waste bins and irregular collection services, contributing to drainage
blockages and pollution. The researchers advocate for better infrastructure, stricter
regulations, and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste
disposal.
Olorunfemi and Aina (2024) explore waste disposal issues in Nigeria, identifying
similar challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and insufficient collection
services. The lack of proper facilities leads to widespread dumping and
contamination, while limited public awareness worsens environmental and health
consequences. The study links improper waste disposal to serious health risks,
including disease spread, respiratory issues, and pest infestations. The authors
propose using the Health Belief Model to raise awareness and promote
sustainable waste management. Researchers recommend education campaigns,
policy improvements, and infrastructural development to mitigate risks and ensure
long-term sustainability.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Proposing Solutions for Improving Waste Management and Public Health
Effective waste management plays a vital role in ensuring public health and
environmental sustainability. Various studies have explored comprehensive
solutions that integrate technology, policy frameworks, and community
participation to enhance waste management systems and reduce health risks.
Lasaiba and Lasaiba (2024) propose a multi-faceted approach to improving waste
management, emphasizing the integration of technology, infrastructure
development, and community participation. The study highlights the significance of
public awareness campaigns and education programs in promoting sustainable
practices such as waste segregation, recycling, and waste reduction. Moreover,
the implementation of smart waste management systems, including automated
waste collection and real-time monitoring, enhances operational efficiency and
minimizes environmental risks. Additionally, strengthening policies and enforcing
strict waste disposal regulations are crucial for ensuring compliance and
accountability. These measures collectively contribute to a more sustainable waste
management system, reducing pollution and preventing health hazards.
Similarly, Ahirwar and Tripathi (2020) explore sustainable waste management
solutions and the impact on public health and environmental safety. Researchers
emphasize the importance of waste segregation at the source to optimize recycling
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
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efforts and minimize landfill waste. Additionally, the study underscores the
necessity of adopting advanced waste processing technologies such as
composting and waste-to-energy conversion to mitigate environmental pollution.
The researchers also advocate for stronger policy frameworks and regulations to
enforce proper waste management practices. Public participation remains a key
factor in the proposed solutions, with educational campaigns playing a critical role
in raising awareness about responsible waste disposal.
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Conclusion
Improper waste disposal poses a significant threat to public health, contributing
to the spread of infectious diseases, contamination of water sources, and
exposure to hazardous chemicals. Studies indicate a direct correlation between
inadequate waste management and increased cases of illnesses such as cholera,
malaria, and respiratory diseases. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to improve
waste collection infrastructure, enforce stricter waste management policies, and
implement public health education programs. These measures will help minimize
exposure to harmful waste and promote safer, healthier communities.
The environmental consequences of poor waste management are equally
alarming, leading to soil and water contamination, greenhouse gas emissions, and
biodiversity loss. Inefficient landfill operations and uncontrolled dumping contribute
to pollution and climate change. Sustainable waste management solutions, such
as waste-to-energy conversion, recycling initiatives, and strict landfill regulations,
are necessary to address these challenges. By adopting these practices, societies
can minimize environmental degradation and promote ecological balance.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Several socio-economic and infrastructural factors contribute to improper waste
disposal, including lack of public awareness, insufficient waste management
infrastructure, and weak policy enforcement. Rapid urbanization, financial
constraints, and cultural attitudes further complicate effective waste management
efforts. Addressing these issues requires implementing educational campaigns to
raise awareness, improving waste collection services, and enforcing stricter
regulations to encourage proper waste disposal habits. These initiatives will help
foster a more responsible and environmentally conscious society.
To improve waste management and public health, a holistic approach combining
technology, policy reforms, and community participation is necessary. Solutions
such as smart waste management systems, waste segregation at the source, and
recycling programs can significantly reduce environmental and health risks.
Additionally, government intervention through enhanced policies, better
infrastructure, and community engagement programs plays a crucial role in
ensuring the success of sustainable waste management practices. By integrating
these strategies, communities can develop efficient waste management systems
that protect both public health and the environment.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
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UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
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UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
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UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
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UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Phase 8-A, Package 11, Bagong Silang 1428 Caloocan, Philippines
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
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