Evaluation of Abattoir Waste Management Practices in Selected Abattoirs in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Abattoirs play a critical role in supplying meat and animal products for human consumption; however, their operations generate large quantities of solid and liquid waste that pose serious environmental and public health risks if not properly managed. A study was therefore carried out to identify the abattoir facilities and waste management techniques employed and to determine the operational efficiency of the facilities in selected abattoirs in Ondo State, Nigeria, using a structured questionnaire, personal observations, interviews, and photographic documentation. The selected abattoirs were located in three major towns in the state (Owo, Akure, and Ile-Oluji), representing the three geopolitical zones of the state. The stakeholders who served as respondents were abattoir cleaners, waste handlers, butchers, supervisors, and veterinary officers. The results revealed that respondents’ ages ranged from 20 to 60 years, with the highest distribution in the 21–30-year age group. Abattoir operations were dominated by men (80%), and secondary education was the most common level of education among respondents (44%). The results also revealed a slaughter rate of 10 animals per day in most abattoirs (75%) in the state. The major waste recorded was dung (20%). Common disposal methods observed included open dumping, open burning, burial in the soil, discharge of wastewater into open drains and nearby streams, and the use of soak-away pits, with very limited application of waste treatment systems; daily waste removal was observed in most abattoirs (82%). Reuse of abattoir waste was also common, with a 92% waste conversion rate. These practices resulted in hazards, including offensive odour, proliferation of flies and rodents, water pollution, and other health issues. Challenges observed in the abattoirs included a lack of facilities and inadequate enforcement of environmental laws and policies. Probable solutions to these challenges are therefore recommended.