ACRC Study Reveals Food Waste's Health Risks in Lagos

A community-led study by the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC) has identified food waste as the most significant health risk in Lagos neighborhoods without formal waste collection, surpassing plastic waste. Conducted by Rethinking Cities under the ACRC Lagos programme at the Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development, University of Lagos, the study was presented during a World Cleanup Day event organized by the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment.

Researchers collected and sorted waste from Ajegunle-Ikorodu between April and June 2026. Although PET plastic was the largest by weight, organic waste posed a higher health risk due to rapid decomposition and drainage blockage.

The study revealed that many households lack formal waste collection, contributing to flooding and waterborne diseases. Dr. Temilade Sesan, ACRC Lagos City Manager, stated that waste management, flooding, and health risks are interconnected.

In response, the project transformed an illegal dumpsite into a community hub for plastic recovery, food-waste composting, and urban farming.