Effects of scrap metal management on the people of the Kassena Nankana municipality in the Upper East Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of scrap metal management on the environment and residents of theKassenaNankana Municipality in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Generation of solid waste and for that matter scrap metal is inevitable and hence the urgent need to adopt prudent and sound scrap metal management strategies to deal with the situation. The main aim of the study was to assess scrap metal management strategies and their effects on the environment and the people in the KassenaNankana Municipality. The study employed mixed methodology which allows the use of questionnaires and observation to collect relevant data for the study. The study specifically explored the impacts of scrap metal on the people of the study area, methods adopted for scrap metal management and economic benefits of scrap metal. The study reveals that scrap metal is a challenge in the municipality but thatsome people have been able to turn the challenge into an opportunity through the management strategies. Scrap metals have created employment for the collectors, dealers and recyclers which help them to earn some income. Scrap metal management strategies adopted include, collection and storage, reuse and recycling. Therefore, the study recommends that the Municipal assembly should support the recyclers with capacity building training and finances to expand their businesses and be more effective.