ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITIES’ PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE

USAGE AND DISPOSAL METHODS OF PLASTIC BAGS IN HARAR

TOWN, ETHIOPIA

BY:
JILALU MUSTEFA
A RESEARCH PAPER SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE, COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND
MEDICAL SCIENCE, HARAMAYA UNIVERSITY IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT
BACHELOR SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE.

FEBRUARY, 2015

HARAR, ETHIOPIA

HARAMAYA UNIVERSITY
 COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SCIENCE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIROMENTAL HEALTH

ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITIES’ PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE

USAGE AND DISPOSAL METHODS OF PLASTIC BAGS IN HARAR
TOWN, ETHIOPIA

BY:-

JILALU MUSTEFA

ADVISOR: BINIYAM NEGUSE (BSc,MPH)

FEBRUARY 2015

ETHIOPIA.

ABSTRACT
Back ground: -Plastics play an important role in almost every aspect of our lives.
Plastics are used to manufacture every day products such as beverage containers, toys, and
furniture. The problems associated with the management of solid wastes in today’s society
are complex because of the quantity and diverse nature of the waste.

Objectives: -The objective of this study was to assess the communities’ perception
toward the usage of plastic bags and their disposal of Harar town, Ethiopia, 2015 G.C.

Methods: a cross- sectional study was conducted from January 3 to January 10 assess the
communities’ perception toward the usage of plastic bags and their disposal of Harar

Town. The data was collected with questionnaire and observational check list. The finding

was presented by using graph, table and pie chart.

Result: The result showed that 120 (39.7 %) of the respondents used plastic bottles
while, the other 110(36.4%), 50(16.6%) & 22(7.3%) used plastic bugs, plastic
buckets, and shoes respectively. The preference of Respondents reason attributed
to the widespread usage of the above plastic products were lack of alternative
materials 108(35.8%), cheap 91(30.1 %), light in weight 45(14.9%), easily
available 58.8 (19.2%). About 268 (88.7%) of the respondent from this Kebele
received about the environmental impact of plastic bags and their wastes. The other
34(11.3%) respondents have not got any information. The information collected
from respondents showed that 176 (58.2%) of the respondents agreed to
discontinue utilization of plastic products (Plastic bags) whereas the rest 126
(41.7%) insisted on continuing their utilization of those products.

ACKNOWLEGDEMENT
First of all, I would like express my deepest thanks and praises to the almighty God because
he is my light and solution.

I would like to thank my advisor BINIYAM NEGUSE for the generous and unrevised
assistance and valuable comments on the development and its successful accomplishments
of research paper.

Lastly but not least I would like to extend my gratitude to the staff member of Harayama
University health science library and research project office, my class mates and also for the
of Harar town municipal office in for giving many information.

Table of contents
Contents
Abstract........................................................................................................................................................I
Acknowledgment.........................................................................................................................................II
Table of contents........................................................................................................................................III
Abbreviations:.............................................................................................................................................V
List of Tables.............................................................................................................................................VI
List of Figures............................................................................................................................................VI
Chapter 1: Introduction................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Background.......................................................................................................................................1
1.2. Statement of the problem..................................................................................................................2
1.3significant of study………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3

Chapter 2: Literature Review......................................................................................................................5

Chapter 3: objectives of the study..............................................................................................................11
3.1. General objective:...........................................................................................................................11
3.2. Specific objectives:.........................................................................................................................11
Chapter 4: Methods and materials.............................................................................................................12
4.1. Study area.......................................................................................................................................12
4.2 study period…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………12

4.3 Study Design:..................................................................................................................................12

4.4. Population:......................................................................................................................................12
4.4.1. Source population........................................................................................................................12
4.4.2. Study population..........................................................................................................................12
4.5. Inclusion and exclusion criteria......................................................................................................12
4.5.1. Inclusion Criteria.....................................................................................................................12
4.5.2. Exclusion Criteria....................................................................................................................12
4.6 Sample size ditrmination ....................................................................................................................13

4.7 Sampling technique…………………………………………………………………………..14

4.8 Methods of data collection………………………………………………………………...…15

4.9. Variables.............................................................................................................................................15
4.9.1 Dependent variable.......................................................................................................................15
 4.9.2. Independent variables..................................................................................................................15
4.10 Method of Data Analysis………………………………………………………………..….15

4.11 Dissemination of result……………………………………………………………………..16

4.13Ethical Consideration……………………………………………………………………….16

4.14Operational definitions.......................................................................................................................16
4.15Limitation……………………………………………………………………………………16

Chapter 5: Results.....................................................................................................................................17
Chapter 6: Discussion................................................................................................................................22
7 Conclusion and Recommendation..........................................................................................................25
8 Reference................................................................................................................................................27

Acronyms and Abbreviation

ASL – Above sea level
EFW-Energy from waste

EPA-Environmental Protection Authority

HDPE- High density Polyethylene
MSW – Municipal Solid Waste
PET- Polyethylene terephthalate
PP-Polypropylene
PS -Polystyrene
PVC - polyvinyl chloride
SWM - Solid waste management
WHO World Health organization

LIST OF TABLE AND FIGURES

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Type of plastics and there common uses ----------------------------------------------------7
Table 2 Occupational status of the respondents-------------------------------------------------------17
Table 3 Reasons to the unwillingness of the community to pay for municipal service-----------21

LIST OF figures
Figure 1 Age category of the respondents---------------------------------------------------------------------------
17

Figure 2 Plastic bag disposal practices------------------------------------------------------------------------------18

Figure 3 Responsible bodies to discontinue plastic bag usage of the respondent……..………….-20

Chapter one
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. BACKGROUND
Almost all human activities create waste in some form or another. Most individual items of
waste, particularly wastes from homes and offices, are not themselves a direct threat for the
public health. It is the way these wastes are or not handled, stored, collected, and disposed that
can pose risks to public health. It is the control of these risks that is addressed in most public
health laws and regulations (1).

Solid waste managementmay be defined as the discipline associated with the control of
generation, storage, collection, transfer and transport, processing and disposal of solid wastes in
a manner that is in accord with the best principles of public health, economics, engineering,
conservation, aesthetics, and other environmental considerations, and that is also responsive to
public attitudes(2).

It is highly related with urbanization and industrialization, For instance in early societies, solid
waste management consisted of digging pits and throwing garbage into them. When cities began
to be more concentrated; however, solid waste management became a serious and complex issue.
Houses that did not have room to bury their garbage would throw it in to the streets. In response,
many cities started to set up municipal garbage collection teams which would dispose of
unusable garbage. This is mainly because modern societies generate far more solid waste than
early humans ever did. As a result, recent events in major urban centers both in developed and
developing countries have shown that municipal solid waste management has become a big
challenge (3).

Plastic bags have been introduced in 1970’s and the word plastic has its origin from the Greek
word -plastikos‖, which means ‗able to be molded into different shapes. Plastic bags increasing
popularity amongst consumers and retailers. They are available in huge numbers and varieties
across the world. It is estimated that around 500 billion plastic bags are used every year
worldwide. This widespread utilization is attributed to their cheapness and convenience to use.
The vast majority of these bags are discarded as wastes usually after a single use. It is also
believed that after their entry into environment, plastic bags can persist up to 1000 years without
being decomposed by sun light and/or microorganisms(4).

The wide spread Plastic can be sorted into two different categories when considering thermal
properties: thermoplastics and thermoset plastics. Thermoset plastics are formed by step-growth
polymerization under proper conditions, allowing thecondensation of bi-functional molecules.
When thermoset plastics are exposed to adequate heat, they undergo chemical changes that are
irreversible. Thermoplastics, however, undergo reversible processes when heated. They are
linear chain molecules where in molecules are joined end-to-end, creating large chains of
molecules (5).

They are also made from ethylene, a gas that is produced as a by-product of oil, gas and coal
production. Ethylene is made into polymers (chains of ethylene molecules) called polyethylene.
This substance, also known as polyethylene or polythene, is made into pellets which are used by
plastic manufacturers to produce a range of items, including plastic bags (7).
And plastics are one of the most abundant materials in the world today. It is an organic
amorphous solid, and is favored for its cheap production costs, mechanical and thermal abilities,
stability and its durability (5).

As all know plastic bags have many benefits that have made it the material of choice for many
applications over the years. Based on chemical inertness alone, plastics are favorable for many
medical uses because they prevent leakage of hazardous materials, and can prevent infection.
Plastics can be made flexible, which allows for tubing and containers that can be utilized for
complex medical procedures that other materials cannot provide. Since plastics are easily molded
into any shape, they are perfect for packaging merchandise, food, drinks, medical products, and
more. Polyethylene has a high strength to weight ratio, allowing for cheaper transportation costs
and lower fuel consumption (8).
Plastic or polythene bags commonly known as festal in Amharic language are in common use as
shopping bags for packaging food, and other items in Harar city as well as other parts of
Ethiopia. In addition to polythene bags, plastics are used in bottling of mineral water, cold drinks
and liquid soap, which become part of waste after use. Majority of the residents collect their
household wastes in plastic sacks and place them roadside on every day until it is carried away
by private waste collectors in the city (2).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In lower-income countries, as well as poorer parts of middle-income nations such as Ethiopia, an
estimated of 30 to 50% solid waste produced in urban areas is left Uncollected. Some viral and
other infectious diseases are associated with waste and also serve as habitat formation for
breeding insects and mosquitoes. In tropical climates, some flying insects are directly associated
with the transmission of endemic diseases. Uncollected waste also blocks drainage channels and
increases the health problems related to pool stagnant water. In addition, accumulated wastes
provide the ever-present hazard of physical injury to people coming into its close proximity,
particularly children (3).
The problem associated with the management of solid wastes in today’s society are complex because of
the quantity and diverse nature of the waste, the development of sprawling urban areas, the funding
limitations for public services in many large cities, the impact of technology, and the emerging limitations
in both energy and raw materials. As a consequence, if solid waste management is to be accomplished in
an efficient and orderly manner, the fundamental aspects and relationships involved must identify,
adjusted for uniformity of data, and under stood clearlyPlastic bags not only affect our local environment
but also affect the world around us. Bags not properly disposed of can end up in waterways, killing
approximately 1 billion seabirds and marine animals each year. Animals can easily confuse these bags for
food, but are not digestible and can result in injury or death. The bags are so thin and light that they easily
ride the wind from landfills to forests, ponds, rivers and elsewhere (15).

The problem with plastic bags include: littering and associated indiscriminate waste disposal and
consumer behavior; resource consumption issues, including reduction, reuse and recycling;
plastic degradability issues relating to littering and resource use; and social issues, community
education and awareness, and consumer perceptions. Open dumping of residential wastes
including plastic is observed commonly in almost all wards of the city. Dumping is commonly
observed near road side, open plots, river side, in drains and public places however, it is
prohibited under Ethiopian law (2, 7).
Furthermore, in several poor and developing countries, these bags are frequently used to carry
food items. This practice can cause serious health problems since some carcinogenic agents
could be generated during the chemical reactions that take place in plastic materials (for
example, coloring agents) and the food items due to temperature variations. In recent reports, it
has been mentioned that reuse of plastic bags can cause cross contamination of foods by
microorganisms.

Moreover, plastic bags are also used for disposing of human and other domestic wastes that
make human health more risky as compared to “open” disposal of these wastes. All the above
facts indicate, low level of sanitation coverage particularly that of solid waste especially with
regarding plastic bags and plastic product usage is one of major cause for disease transmission
and environmental pollution, therefore taking in to consideration the available guide lines on
existing solid waste management level of services shall be assessed and analyzed (16).

1.3 Significant of the Study

It’s true for plastic bag wastes that pose serious environmental pollutions and health problems in
humans and animals. And also this situation is worsened in economically disadvantaged
countries like Ethiopian. In Ethiopia some studies showed that plastic bags are causing severe
environmental pollutions to human and animal health in urban and rural areas of the country.

Hence, people’s perception on fees and on waste collection services is primordial for its
willingness to participate in household solid waste management. The willingness to participate in
solid waste management services could have direct or indirect impact on the reliability and
success of integrated household solid waste management strategy.

As a result, not only municipal solid waste management but also plastic bag disposal and usage
in HARAR have not been carried out in a sufficient and proper manner. The environmental and
sanitary conditions of the town have become more serious from time to time, and people are
suffering from living in such conditions. So that urgent need of efficient MSWM on one hand
and steady growth of solid waste problem on the other side are still the main features of the
town.

Therefore in a view of such problem, this study will attempt to analyze on community’s
perceptions toward the usage and disposal methods of plastic bags and aim to forward the safe
and reliable long term disposal method of different plastic waste residues which is an important
of integrated waste management in kebele 11 Harar town residents and will proved important
information for municipal solid waste management administration, for farther research and give
suggestions and recommendation for all responsible body .

Chapter two

2. Literature Review
Currently there is a boom of plastic material production of mainly polyethylene, polystyrene,
polyvinylchloride and polypropylene. Common polyethylene products include, jugs, bottles,
buckets, plastic bags and packaging film with plastic bags and bottles representing, the largest
growth area of all plastic industries. Plastic water bottles are often used as an easy way to drink
water on the go and plastic bags are given by retailers to their customers because they are cheap,
strong, lightweight, functional, as well as a clean and hygienic means of carrying goods.
Unfortunately, such products are one of the main sources of pollution (). For example, it is
common to find countless plastic materials washed ashore, which poses a serious problem to the
natural environments. Plastic takes much longer to decompose than many other types of garbage
that is typically thrown away (6).

The plastic bag persists in the environment for up to 1000 years, representing a significant waste
impact. The combination of long life and high levels of consumption mean that plastic bags can
place pressure on landfill capacity. The lightweight properties of the plastic bag allow it to
escape from rubbish bins and landfill and if littered, to move around the natural environment
causing a variety of problems. On land, the bag can clog storm water drains, entrap wildlife,
create visual pollution and represent a safety threat to children. Marine species including
mammals, fish and seabirds mistake plastic bags for food. They may die from starvation from the
false sense of being full after ingestion, choke during ingestion itself or die from entanglement.
The plastic bag may break up in 450 years in the sea water, with its smaller pieces representing
an ongoing threat to wildlife mistaking the pieces for food, and eventual degradation
compromising water.A bag manufactured from polyethylene, one of the main problems of
polyethylene is that without special treatment it is not readily biodegradable, and thus
accumulates.

In Japan getting rid of plastics in an environmentally friendly way was the major problem
discussed until the Fukushima disaster in 2011. It was listed as a $90 billion market for solutions.
Since 2008 Japan has rapidly increased the recycling of plastics, but still has a large rate of
plastic wrapping which goes to waste (8).

The widespread use of plastics demands proper end of life management. Plastics make up more
than 12% of the municipal solid waste stream, a dramatic increase from 1960, when plastics
were less than one percent of the waste stream. The recycling rate for different types of plastic
varies greatly, resulting in an overall plastics recycling rate of only 8 percent, or 2.4 million tons
in 2010. However, the recycling rate for some plastics is much higher, for example in 2010, 28%
of HDPE bottles and 29% of PET bottles and jars were recycled (9).

Recycling of plastics is desirable because it avoids their accumulation in landfills. While plastics
constitute only about 8% by weight or 20% by volume of municipal solid waste, their low
density and slowness to decompose makes them a visible pollutant of public concern. It is
evident that the success of recycling is limited by the development of successful strategies for
collection and separation. Recycling of scrap plastics by manufacturers has been highly
successful and has proven economical, but recovering discarded plastics from consumers is more
difficult While plastics are yet to be considered a significant disposal problem in much of the
first world (largely because these materials are land filled--out of sight, out of mind),
organizations in the global south have demonstrated considerable concern in regards to the
detrimental effects of plastic products, notably the terminal waste generated by their disposal.
Direct disposal (littering or dumping) and incineration (burning) of these wastes is a common
practice in the global south. Each is harmful to the health of people and the environment. For
example, dumping in rivers, streams and even urban drainage systems pollutes watercourses and
causes flooding. When these waters are unsanitary, they carry disease into the household .Plastic
wastes can break down and release toxins that harm the environment, animals and the general
public, according to the International Plastics Task Force. Certain chemicals such as bisphenol-A
can cause some serious health concerns, according to an article on plastic bottles by Beth Daley
of the Boston Globe. Even low doses of bisphenol may cause developmental problems in
children (14).

2.2 Issues Relating to Plastics

Plastics are inexpensive, lightweight, strong, durable, corrosion-resistant materials, with high
thermal and electrical insulation properties. The diversity of polymers and the versatility of their
properties are used to make a vast array of products that bring medical and technological
advances, energy savings and numerous other societal benefits. As a consequence, the
production of plastics has increased substantially over the last 60 years from around 0.5 million
tons in 1950 to over 260 million tones today. In Europe alone the plastics industry has a turnover
in excess of 300 million euro’s and employs 1.6 million people. Almost all aspects of daily life
involve plastics, in transport, telecommunications, clothing, footwear and as packaging materials
that facilitate the transport of a wide range of food, drink and other goods. There is considerable
potential for new applications of plastics that will bring benefits in the future, for example as
novel medical applications, in the generation of renewable energy and by reducing energy used
in transport (13).

Table (1) TYPE AND common use of plastic

Types of plastic Examples of applications Symbol

Polyethylene Fizzy drink and water bottles. Salad trays.
Terephthalate nu
ll
 High Density Milk bottles, bleach, cleaners and most nu
Polyethylene shampoo bottles. ll

Pipes, fittings, window and door frames

Polyvinyl nu
(rigid PVC). Thermal insulation (PVC foam)
Chloride ll
and automotive parts.

Low Density nu
Carrier bags, bin liners and packaging films.
Polyethylene ll

Margarine tubs, microwaveable meal trays, also produced

as fibers and filaments for carpets, wall coverings and nu
Polypropylene
vehicle ll
upholstery.

Yoghurt pots, foam hamburger boxes and egg cartons,

plastic cutlery, protective packaging for electronic goods nu
Polystyrene
and toys. Insulating material in the building and ll
construction industry.

Any other plastics that do not fall into any of the above
Unallocated nu
categories - for example polycarbonate which is often used
References ll
in glazing for the aircraft industry

2.3 Plastic Bags and their Nuisances

Plastic bags have some unique problems. While their environmental costs are burdensome for
communities and the planet, the cost of plastic bags for retailers is pretty low. Made from
ethylene, a byproduct of petroleum or natural gas, plastic bags are so cheap and flimsy that
cashiers use them freely, double bagging as a matter of course and often sticking just a few items
in each bag. As a result, shoppers end up with piles of plastic bags spilling out of closets and
threatening to take over cupboards.Until .we finally throw up our hands and either dump them in
the trash or, if we’re lucky enough to live in an area where stores provide plastic bag collection
bins, cart them back for recycling. Sure, some of us reuse plastic shopping bags to line our waste
bins or to pick up dog poop, but the bags still end up in the landfill (12).
2.4 Disposal Route

The main disposal routes for plastics waste are mechanical recycling; incineration (with or
without energy recovery) and landfill. Recycling is the reprocessing of waste material, usually by
combining it with fresh or ‘virgin’ material in such proportions that the properties of the latter
are not compromised. There are currently limited facilities for recycling, although these are
expected to increase as legislation on recycling becomes tighter. Recycling and re-utilization of
waste plastics have several advantages. Recycling and re-utilization of waste plastics lead to a
reduction of the use of virgin materials and of the use of energy, thus also a reduction of carbon
dioxide emissions. Economically, in some cases, plastics recycling may be profitable. It has been
observed, to reduce bad effects of waste plastics, it is better to recycle and re-utilize waste
plastics in environment-friendly manners. As per statistics, about 80% of post-consumer plastic
waste is sent to landfill, 8% is incinerated and only 7% is recycled. In addition to reducing the
amount of plastics waste requiring disposal, recycling and reuse of plastic can have several other
advantages, such as: Conservation of non-renewable fossil fuels Plastic production uses 8% of
the world’s oil production, 4% as feedstock and 4% during manufacture (22) Landfill has been
the most common means of waste disposal in the UK for many years, largely due its low cost
and at one time, the ready supply of large holes left behind from quarrying. However, the
available landfill capacity is nearly all gone and concerns over the production of methane (a
potent greenhouse gas) among other exudates from the sites has led to the Landfill Directive
99/31/EC which aims to reduce the amount of biodegradable waste going to landfill to 35% of
the 1995 total by 2020 (Lee et al,1991). Direct disposal (littering or dumping) and incineration
(burning) of these wastes is a common practice in the global south (16).

The major problem with disposing of plastic is that it is non-biodegradable. This is one reason
plastic is so durable. However, it differs in this respect from paper and organic substances.
Instead, plastic photo degrades, which means that the sun breaks plastic down into smaller pieces
of plastic, rather than down to the basic elements that make up the plastic. Plastic accounts for
approximately 25% of all refuse in landfills. This fact alone makes the disposal of plastic a major
problem. Combined with the fact that plastic is non-biodegradable, this makes the presence of
plastic in landfills a critical issue. Plastics or synthetic polymers have earned a bad image in the
last few years due to littering by consumers and lack of awareness among them about its disposal
(17).

2.5 Legal Framework

Ethiopia has Environmental policy. The policy addresses different environmental issues
including Solid Waste Management (SWM). The bases for the Environmental Policy of Ethiopia
(EPE) are articles 92.1 and 92.2 of the constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of
Ethiopia. These articles enshrine the following rights (11).

Article 92.1:- “Government shall endeavor to ensure that all Ethiopians live in a
Clean and healthy environment”
Article 92.2:- “Government and citizens shall have the duty to protect the environment. (2)
Article 8, sub-article (2) of the proclamation indicates that it shall be unlawful to put on the
market any plastic bag that is not labeled to how whether it is biodegradable or not. But most
plastic bags which are used are under the requirements of the country proclamation and thus
endangering the environment. Like the other cities of developing countries, due to the lack of
waste management information and implementation of the proclamation most of the towns of
Ethiopia are suffering from the adverse effects of the plastic materials Although the country,
Ethiopia, ratifies solid waste management on plastic bags, the proclamation doesn’t clearly
indicate the adverse effects of plastic water bottles after their use. Therefore, due to lack of
awareness on the adverse effects of plastic materials it is common that most of the societies are
re-using those water bottles as storage for different food and liquid beverages such as oil, milk,
water, soft drinks and local foods. Given the direct toxic or Eco toxic infectious threats posed to
the environment and human beings by these wastes, it becomes imperative to adopt
precautionary and preventive measures with respect to waste dumping and proper disposal.
When the above mentioned hazardous plastic waste materials are re-used many times without
care and poor waste dump management, this poses a high health risk to the society and the
environment (18).

2.6 Perception
The perception of one’s capability is said to set a limit to what to do and ultimately
what can be achieved. In this wise, individual’s perception of will influence the
cultural values, responses, and success of the solid waste management system.
Hence, people’s perception on fees and on waste collection services is primordial
for its willingness to pay. The willingness to or not to pay could have direct impact
(positive or negative) on the reliability and success of any solid waste management
strategy. Recent findings however suggest that gender difference could influence
people’s perception on solid waste management. Also age is expected to play a
significant role as maturity could affect level of awareness on environmental health
and sanitation. Another important factor considered to influence people’s
perception on solid waste disposal is the level of educational attainment.

CHAPTER THREE:-
3 Objectives
3.1 General objective
To assess the communities’ perception toward the usage of plastic bags and their disposal of
Hara town

2.2 Specific objectives

 To assess the communities’ perception of the toward plastic bag waste management,
 To assess the current status of plastic bag usage and &it’s disposal
 CHAPTER FOUR

4 Methods and Materials

4.1 Study Area
The study was conducted in Harar town in which is located in eastern Ethiopia. It located at 525
km fromAddis Ababa. . According to 2012 estimation Harar has population of 151,977. From this
population 74900 were male and 77077 were female . The majority of populations in engaged on
agricultural, trade and civil service activities. The average temperature of the town is about 25.3
degree Celsius. The majority of Town has subtropical highland topographic conditions. There are
4/four/ governmental hospitals and one nongovernmental hospital. 8 health centers 22 health post, and 12
middle viruses’ clinic lances. Also Harar contain 8 district and 19 kebels.

4.2 Study Period

This study was conducted from February 1-April 15, 2014.

4.3 Study Design

A community based cross-sectional study was undertaken.

4.4 Population

4.4.1 Source Population

All households in Harar town.

4.4.2 Study Population

Households in kebele 11 of Harar town.

4.5 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

4.5.1 Inclusion criteria
 All households with individuals living in it were included in the study.

4.5.2 Exclusion criteria

 Individual who were mentally and physically ill and who were under the age of 18 were
excluded from the study.
 4.6 Sample size determination

The sample size was calculated using the following formula

n= Z2PQ
d2

n=minimum sample size

N=source population

Z=standard normal deviation corresponding specifying confidence interval (1.96)

P=proportion from the specific confidence interval at 0.05

Q=1-P=0.05

D=reliability coefficient time standard error usually tests at 0.05

n= (1.96)2x0.5xo.5

(0.05)2

n = 384

If N< 10,000 we use correction factor formula nf (final sample size)

nf = n
1+n/N

nf = 302

4.7 Sampling technique

A combination of systematic & simple random sampling techniques was used in selection of
process. Hence the selection of Kebele included in the study was based on random sampling
methods from the total of urban Kebele. Then the numbers of samples was determined based on
the proportion of the total households found in the selected Kebele. Sampled households was
selected by using systematic sampling technique based on the k thratio. The kthratio was
determined by dividing the total study population to the sample size.

Kth ratio = Study population / Sample size= 1401/302 =4.63≈5

Therefore it indicates that he kth value was repeated itself within an interval of 5. To determine
the first sample household from the first 5, simple random sampling technique was employed.

4.8 Methods of data collection

Four 4th year Environmental Health students was data collector. The investigators was
responsible for coordinating the assessment and identify sampled households who was involved
in the interview .Data collectors was trained on the objectives of the study, the tools, checking
completeness of tools and the way to keep confidentiality. The data was collected by using
structured questionnaire and observational checklists. During the collection process, the
questionnaire was translated into Amharic version for easy communication between the
interviewer and interviewee.

4.9 Variables of the study

4.9.1 Dependent Variables

The dependent variables of study are community perceptions towards the usage and disposal
methods of plastic bag wastes.

4.9.2 Independent Variables

Educational status, Age, occupation, Sex, fee for plastic bag disposal and cost of plastic bag.

4.10 Data Quality Assurance

Before conducting the data, firstly, training/Presentation was given for data collectors on how to
collect data properly. To minimize the error due to shortage of time, sufficient time was planned
for each household a minimum of 15– 20 minutes was allocated.

4.11 Method of Data Analysis

Analysis of the collected data was carried out using SPSS software version 16 by giving careful
attention and also using scientific calculator and/or computer.
4.12 Dissemination of result

After the data was analyzed, based on the result, conclusion and recommendation was made, and
then a copy of the research result was submitted to the concerned bodies.

4.13Ethical Consideration

The study was conducted after a written Permission obtained from Haramaya University,
College of health and medical Sciences, Environmental Health department before starting data
collection. Following this the purpose of study was explained clearly to Harar municipal office
and leaders of Kebele 11 to get permission to conduct this survey. Then an informed consent was
obtained on the respondents. During the interview cultural values on the sensitive nature of the
issue was given care. To increase the confidentiality of the study, name of respondents was not
documented.

4.14 Operational Definition

 Disposal:- approaches, namely, sanitary landfills, incinerators and various reuse

techniques can be employed to dispose and handle plastic bag wastes.

 Perception: - way of thinking or feeling about plastic bag wastes and its safe disposal
options.
 High perception: - The respondents, who answered greater than or equal to 65% or 4
questions out of 6 perception related questions would said High perception , unless they
had low perception.

 USAGE:-refers to an action under taken by community to word use of plastic bag

4.15 Limitation

Since study design is cross sectional study and conducted once, the data collected would not be
representative for large period of time.
5. Result
5.1 Personal and socio demographic information
A total of 302 respondents were participated in this study. From this, 131(43.4%)
of them were males and 171 (56.6%) were females.

Fig – 1 – Age category of the respondents

140

120

100

80
frequnecy

60 Series 1

40

20

0
<15 15-34 35-55 >55
Age group of respondent

In case of educational status, most of the respondents 143 (47 %) were Primary
level and in the other category illiterates, high school, and higher education
indicated 33 (10.9 %), 93(30.8%), & 33(10.9%) respectively
Table – 1-, Occupational status of the respondents
Sr.No Frequency (No) Percentage
(%)
1 Students 84 27.8
2 Government employee 84 27.8
3 Private business 91 30.1
4 Others 43 14.2
Total 302 100

5.2 Communities perceptions towards plastic bags and their method of disposals.

The result showed that 120 (39.7 %) of the respondents used plastic bottles while,
the other 110(36.4%), 50(16.6%) &22(7.3%) used plastic bugs, plastic buckets,
and shoes respectively. .

The preference of Respondents reason attributed to the widespread usage of the

above plastic products were lack of alternative materials 108(35.8%), cheap
91(30.1 %), light in weight 45(14.9%), easily available 58.8 (19.2%),

Fig -2- Plastic bag waste disposal practice of the respondents in Harar town

Municipal cervices , others, 6(2%)

53(17.3%)

Open dumping,
153(50.7)

Burning, 90(29.8)
About 268(88.7%) of the respondents from this Kebele received information about
the environmental impact of plastic bags and their wastes. The other 34(11.3%)
respondents were not got any information.

Their source of information were TV/Radio 172(57.0%), Municipalities

43(14.2%), School 28 (9.3%), Published materials example pamphlets & leaflets
26 (8.6%), and the remaining 2(0.7%) were got information from the above
different sources

From the respondents who had not heard about information about the plastic
wastes 10(29.4%) deterioration of environments 5(14.7%) of them answered as
they have problems like animal death 6(17.6%) human health problem 13(54.6%)
blockage of sewage (drain) systems problems.

According to the information, majority of the respondents 248 (82.1%) answered

that the trend of utilization of plastic bags increasing because of the reasons like
easily availability 127(51.8%) cheapness 115(46.3%) and 6(2.9%) lack awareness
of the communities and while the remaining 54( 17.8%) respondents answered as
decreased because of the reasons like awareness of the communities 22
(40.7%)availability of alternative materials 12(22%) and increased price of plastic
products 14 (25.7%), the remaining 6 (11%) were not clearly

The information collected from respondents showed that 176 (58.2%) of the
respondents agreed to discontinue utilization of plastic products (Plastic bags)
whereas the rest 126 (41.7%) insisted on continuing their utilization of those
products.
 120

100

80
frequncey

60 Series 1

40

20

0
community it self municipality government others

Fig -3Responceble body to discontinue plastic bag usage of the respondents in

Harar town.
Paper bags 149(84.6%), fiber bag 14(7.9%), and cloth bag 13(7.3%) were
alternatives suggested by the respondents who have a willingness to minimize or
stop wide usage & disposal of plastic wastes.
Majority 183(61%) of the respondents confirmed that there is presence of
organized waste disposal programs in their area. Among these respondents
118(61.1.4%) of them were satisfied by the service provided by the area. The rest
65(39.1%) were not satisfied by the service.

In response to willingness to separate plastic from household solid wastes, a

profoundly large size of respondents 197(65.4%) willingness to separate and
105(34.3%) but not willingness to separate waste generated.

In response to willingness to pay for solid waste management services major

(89%)willingness to pay but the rest(11%) not because of different .
Table -2 Reasons for Unwillingness of the community to pay for the services
provided by their Harar town

Sr.No Items Frequency ( No ) Percent

(%)
1 I am not ready to pay for the
4 12.5
disposal of waste I generated
2 The amount charged by the
0 0
collector is too high
3 I don’t encouraged by their service 28 87.5
4 No response 0 0
5 Total 32 100

6. Discussions
The result revealed that the majority of the respondent’s usage habits of plastic
product are mainly concern on plastic bottle and plastic bags in their daily life. A
study conducted in Jimma city in May 13 2011 revealed that 76.52% of the
respondents used plastic bags (19). Another study in Ghana on April - June, 2014
revealed that 98.7% of the respondents were used plastic bags as a first choice. The
result indicated that utilizations of plastic bags increased from time to time in
different parts of the world. The result suggested that cheapness, lack of alternative
materials and the current government strategies to change other alternatives were
beloved to be the main reason for the wide spread usage and problem of plastic
bags.

Regarding to the disposal options of plastic bags, majority of the respondents asked
about habit of plastic waste disposal answered open dumping (throwing to the
surrounding area) used as a common practice to dispose plastic products especially
plastic bags. This suggested that indiscriminate throwing of plastic bags to be a
custom among the residents of Harar town. According to the internet sources
accessed in, Plastics accounts damping of sewerage system and uncomfortably of
farming area. This fact suggested that plastic are the main problems combined with
the fact that plastic is non biodegradable. This might be as a result of bad habit and
improper usage of plastic products especially plastic bags. As the result indicated
that, major of the respondents were have or heard information about plastic
products as well as plastic bags. Studies show that awareness and educations are
perceived as the most relevant and effective method or strategies to reduce the use
of plastic wastes. But here good result on information distribution but improper
plastic waste disposal the reason to this issue might be low involvement of health
extension workers on plastic waste management and to change public altitude as
well as the impact of low enforcement of the government laws on the ban of plastic
bag.

The study indicated that majority of the respondents appreciated the important
roles of radio and TV in dissemination of information about adverse impact of
plastic bags. The study conducted Jimma City revealed that about 58.26% of the
respondents were appreciated the important role of TV/Radio in dissemination of
information about adverse impact of plastic bags (19). These results suggest that it
is possible to use these media to inform people about the seriousness of problems
posed by plastic bag wastes and also to change their shopping habits.

In this study majority of the respondents were answered as there is increased

utilization of plastic bags. A study revealed that of in Denmark, a weight based tax
has decreased plastic and paper consumption by 66% (20). In Kenya,
approximately 80% of the municipal waste is generated within households of
which plastic waste constitutes 25%. Another study in US revealed that 77% of
surveyed UA students indicated that plastic bags are harmful to humans and the
environment, and even larger majorities, 90.6%, use plastic bags more often than
reusable low commitment of the community, and unavailability of alternate bags,
cheapness and free distribution of their materials by the retailers or supermarket
owners are believed to be the main reasons for the wide spread usage and problems
of plastics.

In this study majority of the respondents were agreed to discontinue increasing

spread of plastic bags, and the rest were insisted on continuing their utilization of
plastic products especially plastic bags. Among the respondents who were in favor
of the discontinuation of utilization of plastic bags mentioned that the largest
percent were answered the community itself as the first responsible bodies. The
study in Jimma City reveled that more than half 120 (52.17%) of the respondents
agreed to discontinue utilization of plastic bags whereas the rest 110 (47.83%) of
them insisted on continuing their utilization of plastic products especially plastic
bags. This suggested that community itself ready to take responsible and also
Gov’t involvement intensive and extensive awareness rising for proper waste
management and campaigns are required to educate the residents of the study area.

The results of this study on the preferred alternatives to plastic bags were Paper,
fiber bags, and cloth bags. Of them paper bags are major one, because of the
reason it can be degradable, durable, and most importantly in its affordability in
comparison to other alternatives.
Majority of the respondents were confirmed that there is presence of organized
waste disposal programs in their area. Among those respondents majority of them
are satisfied by the service provided by the area while the rest was not satisfied by
the service. This convince that the organization still too late according to
satisfaction of society and environmental health protection by their service or
management.

In response to willingness to separate plastic from household solid wastes, a

profoundly large size of respondents affirmed their willingness to separate waste
generated. Based on the high degree of willingness to separate plastic waste from
varies waste and the low levels of undertaking the same, so that it can be used as
good opportunity for proper waste management.

In response to willingness to pay for SWM majority of respondent affirmed their

willingness but there are also a few groups not willingness because of their major
reason not encourage by the organization.
 CHAPTER SEVEN

7. Conclusions and Recommendations

7.1 Conclusions

Thus it can be concluded that majority of the respondents had gate aware of the
plastic bag effects and also had good perception about plastic product waste. Also
they were aware of the fact that plastic bag is not degradable. The other only a few
of the respondents was unaware of the ill-effects of plastic bags on environment
and health. Generally the numbers of illiterate respondents were small in number
when we contrast with the other, so this can affect the perceptions of the
communities positively. The results of the survey carried out under the study and
experiences from around the world, show that awareness and education is the best
and most effective way to address the problem of wastes in general.
Lastly, research findings of the study show that, there is good opportunity to
improve solid waste management as well as plastic waste issue because the society
full of young age group, more of educated and also have good knowledge about
environmental effect and non biodegradability of plastic products so that only thing
left is municipality and health extinctions worker expected to do more on rising
awareness and changing attitude needs to be addressed plastic wastes and also
GOV’T and municipality build proper SWM organization and solid waste disposal.
7.2 Recommendations

The municipal office should construct solid waste disposal dust bins along the
main street as well as in every junctions of the street/road to decrease
indiscriminate disposal of plastic products waste. The health extension workers in
the town should have to follow and conduct regular supervision of solid waste
disposals methods especially plastic waste disposal. The municipal office should
prepare municipal continuer and continues follow up to manage its services or
select the waste disposal site and apply appropriate methods of disposals.
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