Sachet Water Nylon Waste Recycling for Sanitation and Youth Employment in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Sachet water, popularly called "pure water", is consumed by over 100 million Nigerians, representing about 50% of the population, due to inadequate public water distribution (Tunza Eco-Generation, 2024). This high level of consumption generates enormous quantities of nylon waste, which litters streets and blocks drainages in Abia State. Nigeria generates about 32 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 20–30% collected and less than 10% recycled (Independent, 2024; Guardian, 2024). The study examined sachet water nylon waste recycling for sanitation and youth employment in Abia State. The study was anchored on Circular Economy Theory (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2017) and Community-Based Participatory Theory (Israel et al., 2018). A descriptive survey design was adopted. The population comprised 3,200 stakeholders in the sachet water value chain in Aba and Umuahia. A sample of 400 respondents was selected through a multistage sampling technique using Taro Yamane. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of α = 0.86. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings showed that 78.5% of respondents disposed of sachet nylon through indiscriminate dumping, while 71.0% disposed of sachets in gutters and drainages, thereby contributing to flooding and environmental pollution. Only 32.0% reported recycling sachet nylon waste. Innovative recycling practices include converting sachets into baskets, foot mats, slippers and garden chairs (Nigerian Voice, 2024). Collection through Drop Off Recycle Initiative (DORI) bins, supported by incentives of N20,000 per 1,000 kg, increased participation (RecyclePoints, 2023; NatureNews, 2021). Multiple regression results showed that nylon waste recycling significantly predicted sanitation (β = 0.521, p = 0.000) and youth employment (β = 0.634, p = 0.000), with R² values of 0.587 and 0.612, respectively. Youths involved in the recycling value chain earned an average of N35,000 monthly, with 62% reporting improved income (EnviroNews, 2026; Proshare, 2023; Dow, 2023). Sachet water nylon waste recycling significantly improves sanitation and creates opportunities for sustainable youth employment. The study recommends a community-based circular economy model supported by drop-off collection systems, incentives, youth skills development and small-scale recycling plants.