ANALYSIS OF ORTHODOX AND MODERN REFUSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SUSTAINABILITY IN LAGOS ISLAND EAST (OKESUNA, DOLPHIN ESTATE, OBALENDE, AND ADENIJI)

This research project critically examines the orthodox and modern refuse management systems in environmental health sustainability within Lagos Island East, focusing on the areas of Okesuna, Dolphin Estate, Obalende, and Adeniji. The study utilized a structured questionnaire distributed to 100 respondents to gather data on refuse generation practices, disposal methods, challenges, and perceptions of modern waste management systems. 6 The research was initiated to address growing environmental concerns resulting from ineffective refuse management and to assess how traditional and modern waste disposal methods are contributing to or hindering public health sustainability. The study aimed to understand the awareness, attitudes, and practices of residents in managing refuse while identifying systemic and infrastructural issues that undermine efficiency. The background of the study presented an in-depth rationale, emphasizing the urgency of improved sanitation, public health protection, and the need for policy interventions. A review of existing literature provided context on both local and international waste management strategies, theoretical frameworks guiding environmental health practices, and prior empirical studies that reveal gaps in implementation, enforcement, and public involvement. The methodology adopted a descriptive survey approach, using purposive and random sampling techniques to select respondents from the four identified areas. The data collected covered refuse types, frequency of disposal, access to waste infrastructure, and experiences with both orthodox and modern systems. The findings revealed that while some level of awareness about modern refuse management exists among residents, many still face significant challenges such as irregular waste collection, inadequate infrastructure, poor enforcement of sanitation laws, and limited government-community collaboration. Respondents also expressed willingness to support improved systems, especially if adequate public education and consistent services are provided. Based on these insights, the study made strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing awareness campaigns, improving waste infrastructure, promoting recycling, encouraging stakeholder involvement, and supporting the development of effective, localized waste management policies and this research contributes to environmental health discourse by bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation of sustainable refuse management systems in a densely populated urban context like Lagos Island East. It emphasizes the need for integrated, community-inclusive, and policy-driven approaches to improve waste handling and environmental sustainability.