The future of waste management in Ghana: Assessing the feasibility and scalability of smart waste solutions amidst key adoption challenges

This study explores the potential of smart waste management systems to transform waste disposal practices in Ghana, a nation grappling with significant waste management challenges. The research reveals a stark contrast between the limited infrastructure and traditional waste disposal methods prevalent in rural areas and the more developed, yet still imperfect, systems in urban centers. The study highlights the feasibility of integrating smart technologies—such as sensor-equipped bins, GPS tracking, and data analytics—into Ghana’s waste management landscape, despite the considerable economic, infrastructural, and social barriers. A key finding is the need for foundational improvements in waste infrastructure before advanced smart systems can be effectively introduced, particularly in rural areas. The study also throws more light on the importance of public-private partnerships and targeted public education campaigns to overcome these barriers and foster broader adoption of smart technologies. Along offering practical recommendations and drawing comparisons with similar efforts in other low-income countries, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance waste management practices in Ghana. This study is novel in its focus on applying smart waste management solutions in the context of a developing country like Ghana. While much existing research centers on developed nations, this study uniquely addresses the intersection of socio-economic and technological factors specific to Ghana, offering a well-designed practicable and actionable approach to implementing advanced waste management technologies in a challenging environment. • IoT-enabled systems can optimize waste collection and reduce costs in urban Ghana, despite infrastructural challenges. • Blockchain can ensures transparency in hazardous and e-waste management for safer environmental practices. • Public-private partnerships bridge economic gaps for scalable smart waste technologies in rural Ghana. • AI-driven analytics predict waste patterns, enhancing efficiency and sustainability across waste systems. • Smart waste systems in Ghana align with SDGs, fostering urban sustainability and economic growth.