Assessing the Effects of Flood Waste on Municipal Solid Waste Systems: A Community Centric Approach to Waste Management

During a flood event the volume and complexity of municipal solid waste (MSW) increases, which presents considerable challenges to waste management systems that are already under stress especially in developing countries. This study investigates the impact of annual floods on municipal solid waste management systems in Limbe, Cameroon, focusing on community-based strategies. It employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data on waste composition and volume with qualitative data from resident surveys and interviews with officials. Findings reveal significant increases in waste volume during floods, inadequate waste disposal practices, and limited awareness of flood risk and waste management among residents. This study emphasizes the need to integrate flood waste management into the DWM framework and enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of the waste management system in the face of increasing climate-induced disasters.