Evaluation Of Municipal Waste Services In Matjhabeng Local Municipality, Free State Province

Abstract

The study evaluated the degree of effectiveness, efficiency, safety and sustainable solid waste management service delivery in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality and to recommend possible measures to improve the services delivered. Six towns in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality were included in the study and English questionnaires were completed by 50 respondents in each town. Results of the study indicated that no plastic bags or bins were provided for storage and sorting of waste generated by the residents. There was a lack of routine collection of waste and no communication with the residents with regards to solid waste occurred. It was observed that the majority of residents dumped their waste in open spaces and very few residents recycle and compost their waste and a need exists to educate the residents regarding the importance of recycling and composting waste. The study indicated that the current solid waste management system in Matjhabeng Local Municipal area is not sustainable and it should be improved. It is recommended that adequate transport and collection of waste, improved communication with residents (meetings), promotion of reduction, reuse and recycling of waste be emphasized. Community based composting as well as municipal assistance being provided by the local municipalities with segregation and collection of waste, will lead to a more sustainable solid waste management system.