An Assessment of Domestic Waste Management Practices and Challenges Among Residence Age 18-45 Years in Bishop Hill Community

This study assessed domestic waste management practices and challenges among residents aged 18–45 years in Bishop Hill Community, Liberia. The study is significant as it provides insight into household waste disposal behaviors and identifies key barriers to effective waste management, with implications for improving environmental sanitation and public health. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. The study population comprised 550 residents, from which 227 respondents were selected using the Raosoft sample size calculator at a 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error. A simple random sampling technique was used. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered via face-to-face interviews and analyzed using Microsoft Excel, with results presented in frequencies and percentages. Findings revealed generally poor waste management practices. Half of the respondents (50%) disposed of waste in open spaces, 33% burned waste, and 17% buried waste. None of the respondents practiced waste segregation. Food waste (44%) was the most commonly generated type of waste. Major challenges included lack of waste bins (67%), inadequate waste collection services (17%), and limited knowledge of proper waste management (17%). Despite these challenges, all respondents (100%) expressed willingness to use waste bins if provided, and 92% supported enforcement of penalties for improper waste disposal. In conclusion, domestic waste management practices in Bishop Hill Community are inadequate despite a strong willingness among residents to improve. The study recommends provision of waste bins, improved waste collection services, continuous environmental education, and stricter enforcement of sanitation regulations to reduce environmental health risks.