Laboratory Analysts Urge Government, Public to Embrace Proper Waste Management, Recycling for Health and Economic Gains

Leading laboratory analysts in Nigeria are intensifying their call for both governmental prioritization and public adherence to proper waste disposal and recycling practices, emphasizing their critical role in safeguarding public health and unlocking significant wealth creation opportunities. This advocacy comes as the nation grapples with mounting waste challenges, particularly from hazardous sources.

Professional bodies like the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) have been at the forefront of this push. The NISLT recently concluded a workshop in Ibadan in April 2025, which prominently featured “Laboratory Safety, Waste Management and Risk Mitigation,” underscoring the vital importance of the subject matter. Similarly, the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) has consistently issued guidelines for the stringent management of waste from medical laboratories to prevent disease outbreaks and environmental pollution.

Laboratory analysts warn that the prevalent improper waste disposal methods in Nigeria, such as open dumping and burning, are potent sources of environmental degradation and public health crises. “Improper waste disposal leads to severe air, soil, and water pollution, creating breeding grounds for disease vectors like mosquitoes, flies, and rodents,” stated a representative of the laboratory community. They highlighted the increased risk of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and leptospirosis. They particularly stressed the dangers posed by hazardous waste, including chemicals, biological materials, and sharps from laboratories, which can lead to serious health issues if not handled meticulously.

Beyond public health, the analysts emphasized the untapped economic potential within the nation’s waste streams. They advocate for a paradigm shift where waste is viewed as a valuable resource rather than a mere nuisance. “Recycling is not just about environmental protection; it’s a powerful engine for economic growth,” an analyst pointed out. Recycling reduces landfill burden, conserves natural resources, lessens greenhouse gas emissions, and generates jobs. They also highlighted composting for nutrient-rich soil and waste-to-energy initiatives as viable avenues for wealth creation.

To achieve effective waste management, experts recommend a multi-pronged approach:

• Strict Segregation: Meticulous sorting of waste at source, especially separating hazardous from non-hazardous materials in laboratories and households.
• Safe Handling & Disposal: Adhering to specific guidelines for chemical and biological waste, including neutralization, proper containment, and safe disposal of sharps.
• Resource Recovery: Investing in infrastructure and technologies that support widespread recycling, reuse, and energy recovery from waste.
• Public Awareness: Implementing robust public education campaigns to foster responsible waste disposal habits and encourage participation in recycling programs.

Nigeria generates an estimated 32 million tons of solid waste annually, with a significant portion uncollected and improperly managed due to factors like inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, weak regulatory frameworks, and low public awareness. Laboratory analysts believe that prioritizing these recommendations is crucial for transforming Nigeria’s waste challenge into an opportunity for improved public health and sustainable economic prosperity.