Authors : Olufayo , Olu-Olu and B.J. Omotosho
Abstract: Waste scavenging has become a means of livelihood in this part of the globe, especially among the less privileged. Several individuals are in the trade without considering the social and health implications of the profession on them. This study examined this waste scavenging as a means of livelihood and the coping strategies among the professionals. Findings from the study revealed that the respondents are in the business based on the fact that they have unfavourable socio-economic status. Findings also revealed that majority of the respondents are Nigerians, a contradiction with the existing literature. Also, the trade may not continue in the future as entrants into the business keep reducing in the last five years. The findings also showed that scavengers understand the social and health implications of the trade but are not capable of changing their situations. The study recommends ways by which the trade can become a descent profession, which would benefit both the practitioners and the general society.
Olufayo , Olu-Olu and B.J. Omotosho , 2007. Waste Scavenging as a Means of Livelihood in Southwestern Nigeria. Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences, 4: 141-146.