From Performance to Pollution: Examining the Environmental Consequences of Masquerade Costume Waste in Sekondi-Takoradi

The growing volume of textile waste poses serious environmental and public health challenges, especially in the Global South where waste management systems are limited. While fashion-related textile waste has been widely studied, waste from cultural practices remains underexplored. This study investigates the environmental impact of masquerade costume waste in Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana, focusing on disposal methods, health implications, and community perceptions. Adopting an interpretivist approach and qualitative case study design, the study collected data through semi-structured interviews with 26 participants and analyzed thematically. Findings show that disposal is largely through open burning, dumping, and abandonment, influenced by cultural beliefs, competition, limited storage, and the lack of formal systems. These practices contribute to pollution, respiratory issues, flooding, and mosquito breeding. Despite awareness of these effects, unsustainable practices persist due to social norms and limited alternatives, highlighting the need for culturally responsive waste management strategies.