Physical and Environmental Determinants of Vegetable Market Place and Related Facilities: The Case of Lafto Vegetable Market Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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Date
2025-04-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Urbanization is a prominent trend and an important issue in the world’s development discourse. The study focuses on solid waste management and stormwater management at the Lafto Vegetable Market Center in Addis Ababa, highlighting significant environmental sustainability concerns. Urban markets like Lafto generate substantial waste and face complex water management issues, adversely impacting the environment and public health. Key problems identified include inadequate waste collection and disposal systems, ineffective waste segregation, and increased pollutants, leading to health risks and operational challenges during heavy rainfall. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the research examined municipal policies, conducted interviews with local authorities and vendors, and made field observations, particularly focusing on the drainage system, stakeholder perspectives, and current waste management practices. Data was collected using site observations, Google Earth images, and insights from key informants, analyzed with SPSS 26.1 software. The study findings revealed significant sustainability issues, including the lack of waste bins near businesses, designated waste collection areas, and no effective waste management practices. Accumulated waste on-site, in drainage systems and traffic congestions on streets exacerbates these problems. The study recommends several solutions for developing comprehensive waste collection systems, enhancing recycling and composting facilities, and improving garbage pickup schedules for solid waste management. For storm water management, it suggests upgrading drainage infrastructure. Additionally the study provides valuable insights for market operators, policymakers, and urban planners aimed at improving public health and environmental quality in Addis Ababa's vegetable markets.
Key words: physical environment; vegetable market; resilience; sustainability.