Determinants of Ineffective Waste Recycling Practices Among Small and Medium Enterprises in Owerri North, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the challenges hindering effective waste recycling among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with a view to improving environmental and socio-economic outcomes in Owerri North, Imo State, Nigeria. A total of twenty-eight SMEs was selected within the study area using stratified and purposive sampling techniques, and their geographical coordinates were recorded. Data were collected from 84 respondents across the selected enterprises, covering retail, hospitality, and service sectors, using structured questionnaires. In addition, selected air quality parameters were measured using an air quality meter to evaluate environmental impacts within the study locations. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, while cost-benefit analysis was employed to examine the influence of economic and operational challenges on recycling effectiveness. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine whether significant differences existed in recycling effectiveness across SME sectors. The findings revealed that low public awareness and inadequate environmental education significantly hinder proper waste segregation practices. Negative perceptions regarding the quality of recycled products further limit participation in recycling activities. Economic constraints such as high initial investment costs, punitive regulations and licensing requirements, and the absence of incentives (e.g., tax subsidies) were also identified as major barriers. Additionally, respondents indicated that waste segregation is perceived as cumbersome by consumers, while lack of appropriate recycling technologies and limited access to market data for business analytics further constrain recycling efforts. The ANOVA results indicated a statistically significant difference in recycling effectiveness across SME sectors (F(3,36) = 10.500, p < 0.05). However, another test showed no statistically significant difference among groups (F(3,36) = 0.175, p > 0.05), leading to the acceptance of the corresponding null hypothesis. The study concludes that both socio-cultural perceptions and economic constraints play critical roles in limiting effective waste recycling among SMEs. It recommends stricter enforcement of waste management regulations by relevant authorities, as well as the provision of favourable tax incentives, low interest credit facilities, and other fiscal measures by federal and state governments to encourage investment in recycling and other environmentally sustainable ventures.