THE NEXUS BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND SUSTAINABLE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTISES

The study was carried out in Ogbia town in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The purpose of the study was to examine the nexus between environmental education and effective solid waste management practices. A survey method was adopted, where a questionnaire was administered on 210 randomly selected residents to assess their knowledge, attitude and practice of solid waste management. Data gathered was coded and analyzed using descriptive analysis; tables and simple percentages and Pearson lProduct Moment correlation analysis at 0.05 significance level. The study revealed that solid waste management practices of residents were poor; their throw away attitude, dumping, channels, drainages, canals and open spaces as well as burning of solid waste hold far- reaching environmental and health consequences; hence, antithetical to sustainable development. Also, lack of awareness, inadequate waste collection-facilities and lack of funding of relevant agencies were identified as challenges faced by residents. The study recommended the incorporation of environmental education into the school curriculum and community-based initiatives and programmes amongst others; to improve solid waste management practices in Ogbia Town and environs. Results of this study would provide insight for policy-makers and stakeholder to develop effective environmental education programmes that would promote sustainable waste management practices