Trends in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Attributable to the Waste Sector in Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

The waste sector is a growing contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Côte d’Ivoire, with methane (CH₄) as the dominant pollutant. This study examines GHG emission trends from this sector during the period 1990-2022, using data from Côte d’Ivoire’s national GHG inventory reports. Findings reveal a consistent increase in GHG emissions, driven mainly by rapid urbanization, population growth, and the rising amount of municipal solid waste. The growing contribution of the waste sector to national GHG emissions highlights the urgent need for targeted and sector-specific mitigation strategies to align with national and international climate goals. Despite recent policy reforms, including the closure of the Akouédo landfill, the establishment of the Kossihouen sanitary landfill, the creation of the National Waste Management Agency, and the adoption of the 2023 Environmental Code prohibiting open burning and uncontrolled dumpsites, the waste sector remains widespread and continues to generate significant emissions, posing risks to air quality and public health. The results highlight the critical importance of implementing sustainable waste management practices, such as improved collection, sanitary landfilling, recycling, and methane recovery systems, to reduce emissions and support national climate change mitigation objectives.