Environmental sanitation and pollution control measures in the Odaw-Korle River catchment, Ghana

ABSTRACT

This article reports on a study that sought to understand the major factors to consider in changing poor environmental sanitation practices in urban communities in Accra, Ghana. The study focused on three main issues: the drivers of sanitation and pollution control measures in the communities; community members’ perceptions on the influence of poor planning on environmental sanitation and pollution; and how existing local governance arrangements influence environmental sanitation and pollution control. It found that efforts are made at the city, community, and individual levels to control poor environmental practices. In order to control environmental pollution, policy initiatives on sanctions should be coupled with the provision of efficient sanitation facilities and services.

KEYWORDS:

• Environment (built and natural)
• Social sector – Water and sanitation
• Sub-Saharan Africa

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Ernest Mensah Abraham is a Lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana.

Adrienne M. Martin is Director of Programme Development at the Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Greenwich, UK.

Olufunke Cofie is Head of the West Africa Regional Office, International Water Management Institute, Accra, Ghana.