Analysis of the Solid Waste Management Chain Produced at the University of Man (Western of Côte d'Ivoire)

For the sustainable management of household and similar solid waste, the concepts of "zero waste" and the circular economy present a challenge for public authorities.This study therefore aims to assess the management of solid waste generated at the University of Man through direct surveys, field observations, and waste characterization analyses.The questionnaire survey covered a sample of 508 ± 0.05 participants.Direct observations show that the university has only 19 trash bins.Waste management involves pre-collection followed by transport by a private company (CI 2E) to disposal sites in the city of Man, though this occurs on an irregular basis.The company does not sort waste at the source to separate different types of waste.The eleven (11) categories of waste types and quantities including putrescible waste (119.80 ± 0.02 kg), plastics (79.50 ± 0.03 kg), cardboard/paper (69.30 ± 0.03 kg), electronic and electrical waste (10.30 ± 0.09 kg), inert waste (2.99 ± 0.06 kg), glass (11.5 ± 0.09 kg), textiles and sanitary textiles (4.60 ± 0.14 kg and 0.62 ± 0.40 kg, respectively), metals (9.05 ± 0.03 kg), special waste (1.40 ± 0.26 kg), and medical waste (10.80 ± 0.09 kg) were identified within the university.Waste is generated across various departments, ranging from administrative offices and the CROU to the infirmary.The CROU departments are the largest producers.Based on the university's average daily occupancy rate, the amount of waste collected corresponds to a specific generation rate of 0.14 kg per person per day.The high proportion of biodegradable waste suggests the need for a recovery strategy, and non-biodegradable waste could be sold for recycling or reuse.Regarding adherence to the zero-waste policy and the 5R, the majority of respondents support this policy.To ensure a healthy university environment, the waste management system must be improved.