Health Impacts Of Environmental Waste In The Three Districts In The Free State

Abstract

Developing countries, including South Africa, continue to face significant challenges in achieving effective and sustainable waste management despite progressive legislation. This study assessed the environmental and public health impacts of waste exposure among residents living near landfill sites in the province. The research adopted quantitative cross-sectional design. Primary data were collected by convenience from residents living near selected landfill sites using structured questionnaires, observational checklists, and field mapping supported by Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. Study sites were purposively selected based on prior evidence of operational deficiencies and exposure risks. Due to inadequate fencing and limited monitoring, school-age children and domestic animals were frequently observed scavenging at landfills for food or reusable items. Residential dwellings were found on seven landfill sites (38.9%), and three sites (16.7%) were located within 2 km of water bodies, the closest being approximately 140 m away posing a substantial risk of water contamination. While 62.8% of respondents had never been hospitalised, 21.5% reported admissions due to illnesses related to poor air quality, pathogen exposure, and environmental stressors primarily respiratory ulcers, bronchitis, diarrheal infections, and tuberculosis. The association between healthcare visits and disease prevalence (p = 0.004 < 0.05) reinforces the environmental health burden faced by communities near landfill sites. The study suggests enforcing segregation, treatment, and safe disposal of hazardous waste, revising landfill classifications and strengthening compliance monitoring systems and promoting waste diversion in alignment with the waste management hierarchy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).