Assessment of the environmental and health impact of the use of biodegradable solid waste in urban agriculture: Bobo-Dioulasso case

Abstract

The waste brings mineral elements to the ground. But without adequate pretreatment, they can be a source of heavy metal contamination. The objective of the study is to assess the environmental and health risks associated with the use of waste in urban agriculture. The study sites are Kodéni, Kuinima, Dogona and Sector 22. A survey of 70 producers at these sites was conducted to collect information on waste used and to characterize the farm units. Soil samples were also taken to assess chemical parameters. Surveys have shown that household waste is the most used at all sites, with a percentage between 38 and 70%. Heavy metal contents per kg of soil were 5.3 mg, 144 mg, 36 mg and 405 mg for Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn, respectively. Soils at the sites are therefore contaminated. The pHH2O range from 7.45 to 7.94. Soil C/N values range from 10 to 12, so organic matter is stable. These results suggest continuing efforts to design appropriate and effective waste pre-treatment techniques.