Arable Land Pollution in Ghana: A Look at Agrochemical Plastic Waste Handling among Farmers

Abstract

The mishandling of agrochemical waste is a major environmental problem causing pollution and a threat to public health. Although the number of agrochemical companies in Ghana continues to grow exponentially, limited efforts are directed toward the proper disposal of plastic bottles after use. Consequently, the study explores the post handling activities of farmers concerning agricultural plastic waste. Using the Birim South District of the Eastern Region of Ghana as the case study, the descriptive statistics are employed to provide answers to the research questions by examining the survey responses of the 120 farmers sampled randomly from an estimated 850 farmers from 4 communities. The results suggest that farmers in the district are aware of the triple rinsing mechanism of ensuring safe disposal. Further, few farmers have had extensive training on the safe usage and disposal of pesticides. In spite, most farmers are willing to burn, bury, and reuse empty agrochemical bottles to properly dispose of after usage. The study reveals a knowledge gap in responsible usage and disposal of agrochemical bottles and the need for an appropriate management system to tackle the challenge.