CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

The chapter aims to present the background to the study, which encompasses the statement of research problem, research questions, research objectives and the hypotheses of the study. Other aspects of interest are the justification, significance, the scope and delimitation of the study. The scope involves thematic, temporal and spatial delimitation of the study. The last section presents the organization of the study, which structured into the various chapters that make up the study. The chapter ends with the chapter conclusion.

1.1Back ground of the study

The world is facing a significant challenge in managing biodegradable waste, with the global waste generation rate expected to increase by 70% by 2050 (World Bank, 2025). Biodegradable waste, including food waste, agricultural waste, and human waste, accounts for a significant portion of the total waste generated globally (United Nations Environment Programme, 2025).The improper management of biodegradable waste can lead to environmental pollution, health risks, and economic losses (World Health Organization, 2025). In addition, biodegradable waste management is closely linked to climate change, as the decomposition of organic waste in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2025). Globally, the management of biodegradable waste is a complex issue, requiring the coordination of multiple stakeholders, including governments, private sector companies, and civil society organizations (African Development Bank, 2025). Effective biodegradable waste management strategies, including waste reduction, recycling, and composting, can help mitigate the environmental and health impacts of biodegradable waste (European Union, 2025). In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of biodegradable waste management, with many countries and international organizations developing policies and programs to address this issue (United Nations, 2025). However, despite these efforts, biodegradable waste management remains a significant challenge globally, requiring continued innovation, investment, and cooperation (World Economic Forum, 2025).

Africa is facing significant challenges in managing biodegradable waste, with the continent’s rapid urbanization and population growth leading to an increase in waste generation (African Development Bank, 2025). The improper management of biodegradable waste in Africa can lead to environmental pollution, health risks, and economic losses (World Health Organization, 2025). In Africa, biodegradable waste accounts for a significant portion of the total waste generated, with organic waste, including food waste and agricultural waste, being the largest component (United Nations Environment Programme, 2025). The management of biodegradable waste in Africa is often inadequate, with many countries lacking effective waste management infrastructure and services (African Union, 2025).The African continent is home to some of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with many of these cities facing significant challenges in managing biodegradable waste (United Nations Human Settlements Programme, 2025). In addition, the lack of effective waste management policies and regulations in many African countries hinders the development of effective biodegradable waste management strategies (African Development Bank, 2025). Despite these challenges, there are many examples of successful biodegradable waste management initiatives in Africa, including waste-to-energy projects, composting programs, and waste reduction initiatives (International Finance Corporation, 2025). These initiatives demonstrate the potential for effective biodegradable waste management in Africa, and highlight the need for continued innovation, investment, and cooperation to address this challenge. Many countries are beginning to adopt integrated waste management strategies that prioritize resource recovery and sustainability. For instance, South Africa’s National Waste Management Strategy emphasizes the importance of recycling and composting as key components of waste management systems (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2018). However, the implementation of these policies often faces obstacles such as limited funding, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate public awareness.

Cameroon, a country in Central Africa, is facing significant challenges in managing biodegradable waste, with the country’s rapid urbanization and population growth leading to an increase in waste generation (Ministry of Environment and Nature Protection, 2025). The improper management of biodegradable waste in Cameroon can lead to environmental pollution, health risks, and economic losses (World Health Organization, 2025).In Cameroon, biodegradable waste accounts for a significant portion of the total waste generated, with organic waste, including food waste and agricultural waste, being the largest component (United Nations Environment Programme, 2025). The management of biodegradable waste in Cameroon is often inadequate, with many cities lacking effective waste management infrastructure and services (Cameroon Ministry of Urban Development, 2025).                             The Cameroon government has developed a national waste management strategy, which aims to improve waste management practices and reduce the environmental and health impacts of waste (Ministry of Environment and Nature Protection, 2025). However, the implementation of this strategy is facing challenges, including limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of public awareness (World Bank, 2025).

In the Northwest Region of Cameroon, where Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision is located, the management of biodegradable waste is a significant challenge, with the region’s rapid urbanization and population growth leading to an increase in waste generation (Northwest Region Development Plan, 2025). The improper management of biodegradable waste in the Northwest Region can lead to environmental pollution, health risks, and economic losses (World Health Organization, 2025).

Mankon is a vibrant village with rural and urban areas in the North West Region of Cameroon, is experiencing significant urbanization and population growth, which have led to increased production of biodegradable waste. Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision, a rapidly growing urban area in Cameroon’s Northwest Region, faces significant challenges in managing biodegradable waste (Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision Council, 2025). The subdivision’s population growth and urbanization have led to an increase in waste generation, with biodegradable waste accounting for a significant portion of the total waste generated (Bamenda City Council, 2025).

In Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision, biodegradable waste is generated from various sources, including households, markets, and agricultural activities (Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision Council, 2025). The improper management of biodegradable waste in the subdivision can lead to environmental pollution, health risks, and economic losses (World Health Organization, 2025). The management of biodegradable waste in Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision is hindered by several factors, including inadequate waste management infrastructure, limited financial resources, and lack of public awareness and education on proper waste management practices (Bamenda City Council, 2025). To address these challenges, there is a need for effective biodegradable waste management strategies, including waste reduction, recycling, and composting (United Nations Environment Programme, 2025).                                                        The Cameroon government has implemented several initiatives to improve waste management in the country, including the development of a national waste management strategy (Ministry of Environment and Nature Protection, 2025). However, more needs to be done to address the specific challenges facing Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve waste management in Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision, including the establishment of a waste management committee and the implementation of waste collection and disposal programs (Mankon Bamenda II Subdivision Council, 2025). However, these efforts are often hindered by limited resources and lack of public support.

1.2 Statement of the Research Problem

The production and management of biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision involve various stakeholders. These include producers, such as households and markets that generate biodegradable waste. Consumers, including individuals and businesses, also play a role in biodegradable waste production through their consumption patterns. The government is responsible for developing and implementing policies and regulations for waste management. Civil society organizations, waste management companies, and researchers also contribute to biodegradable waste management through awareness-raising, service provision, and research. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of these stakeholders is crucial for developing effective biodegradable waste management strategies.

Biodegradable waste production in Bamenda II Subdivision is a significant challenge. The area’s growing population, urbanization, and changing consumption patterns contribute to increased waste generation. Biodegradable waste, including food waste, yard trimmings, and other organic materials, is a major component of the waste stream. The production of biodegradable waste is influenced by factors such as household size, income level, and cultural practices. Understanding how biodegradable waste is produced in Bamenda II Subdivision is essential for developing effective waste management strategies that address the root causes of waste generation.

The management of biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision poses significant challenges. The area lacks adequate waste management infrastructure, including composting facilities and proper disposal sites. Biodegradable waste is often disposed of in open dumps or landfills, posing environmental and health risks. Effective management strategies, such as composting, recycling, and proper disposal, are needed to reduce the environmental and health impacts of biodegradable waste. Understanding the current management strategies used in Bamenda II Subdivision is crucial for identifying opportunities for improvement and developing more effective approaches to managing biodegradable waste.

The pedagogical relevance of biodegradable waste production and management in Mankon, Bamenda II Subdivision, lies in its potential to promote sustainable practices and reduce environmental and health impacts. By understanding the stakeholders involved, waste production patterns, and management strategies, educators can develop educational programs that promote waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal. Investigating the pedagogical relevance of biodegradable waste production and management can provide valuable insights into how this knowledge can be integrated into educational programs, promoting sustainable development and environmental awareness among students and the broader community.

1.3 Research Questions

1.3.1Main Research Question

How can the production and management of biodegradable waste in Mankon Bamenda II subdivision be improved to achieve sustainable waste management practices?

1.3.2 Specific Research Question

1. What types of biodegradable waste are produced in Mankon Bamenda
2. Which management strategies are used in biodegradable waste in Bamenda ll subdivision?
3. Who are the stake holders involved in biodegradable waste production and management in Bamenda ll subdivision?
4. What are the pedagogical relevance of biodegradable waste production and management in Mankon Bamenda ll subdivision

1.4 The Research Objectives

1.4.1 Main Research Objectives

To assess the state of biodegradable waste production and management in Mankon, Bamenda II subdivision.

1.4.2 Specific Research Objectives

1. To identify the types of biodegradable waste produced in Mankon Bamenda
2. To identify the existing management strategies and practices used for biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon.
3. To identify the stakeholders involved in Biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon
4. To investigate and understand the pedagogical approaches, methods, and strategies used by educators in Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon, in teaching and learning about biodegradable waste management.

1.5 The Research Hypothesis

1.4.1. Main Research Hypothesis

Implementing comprehensive biodegradable waste management strategies will lead to significant reduction in the amount of biodegradable waste and contribute to sustainable waste management in Mankon, Bamenda II subdivision.

1.4.2 Specific Research Hypothesis

1. The main types of biodegradable waste produced in Mankon Bamenda include food waste, agricultural waste and yard trimmings
2. Management strategies used for biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon, are largely informal and unregulated.
3. Multiple stakeholders, involved in the production and management of biodegradable waste in Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon.
4. Current pedagogical approaches used to educate residents of Bamenda II Subdivision, Cameroon about biodegradable waste management.