Impact of Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project on the Adoption of Sustainable Waste Management Practices among Households in Southeast Nigeria

The study assessed the impact of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) on the adoption of sustainable waste management practices among households in Southeast Nigeria. Using a quasi-experimental design and a structured interview schedule, a total of 421 households were selected through a multistage sampling procedure, and the data analysed using Propensity Score Matching combined with Difference-in-Differences (DID). The results show that unsafe sanitation practices such as open defecation, uncovered pit latrines, and the disposal of waste in rivers or ponds declined by 95%, while solid waste disposal showed a statistically significant improvement (DiD = 0.69; p < 0.05), reflecting increased use of safe waste collection and designated dumpsites. Willingness to contribute cash or in-kind resources toward erosion control initiatives (DiD = 0.2384) and youth involvement (DiD = 0.0705) were higher in the treatment group, highlighting improved collective action and sustainability potential. NEWMAP effectively promoted behavioural change towards sustainable waste practices. The study advocate for complementary investments in drainage and waste-transport infrastructure by government, supported with effective and sustained environmental education by extension.