Study of Construction Waste Management Practices on Sites in Onitsha, Anambra State

Effective management of construction waste is increasingly important in Nigerian cities facing rapid urban growth and limited waste disposal infrastructure. This study examines construction waste management practices on building sites in Onitsha, Anambra State, a city experiencing significant commercial construction activity. A descriptive quantitative design was employed, with structured questionnaires administered to 86 site managers, quantity surveyors, and environmental health officers working on active construction sites. Data were analysed using frequency distributions and mean item scores. Findings indicate that only 18% of sites in Onitsha maintain a formal waste management plan, and recycling of construction materials is practised on fewer than 10% of surveyed sites. Common waste types include concrete offcuts, reinforcement bar offcuts, and ceramic tile debris, which are largely disposed of in open dumpsites. The study finds that inadequate regulatory enforcement, poor awareness of sustainable waste practices, and the absence of financial incentives for waste reduction are the primary obstacles to improved waste management. Recommendations include mandatory waste management plans as a condition for building permits in Onitsha, provision of designated construction waste collection points, and professional guidance from the NIQS on sustainable site practice. Quantity surveyors are urged to include waste allowances and recycling cost items in bills of quantities. This study fills a research gap on environmental sustainability in construction in the South East geopolitical zone. Keywords: construction waste, waste management, Onitsha, sustainability, quantity surveying