Fact Check: Accra can only process 30 tonnes of textile waste daily, leaving 70 tonnes uncollected.

Fact Check: "Accra can only process 30 tonnes of textile waste daily, leaving 70 tonnes uncollected."

What We Know

The claim that "Accra can only process 30 tonnes of textile waste daily, leaving 70 tonnes uncollected" is supported by statements from local authorities. According to the head of Accra's waste management department, Solomon Noi, the city is capable of collecting and processing only 30 tonnes of textile waste each day. He further estimates that approximately 100 tonnes of garments leave the market daily as waste, indicating that the remaining 70 tonnes are not processed and instead end up in waste dumps, drains, lagoons, wetlands, and the sea (source, source).

Additionally, a report highlights that the Kantomanto Market in Accra receives over 1,000 tonnes of clothes weekly, which contributes significantly to the textile waste problem in the city (source). This influx of waste is overwhelming local waste management systems, leading to environmental concerns as unprocessed waste accumulates in sensitive areas.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible sources, including statements from local government officials and investigative reports. The data provided by Solomon Noi is particularly relevant, as it comes directly from the waste management department, which is responsible for handling such issues in Accra. The figure of 30 tonnes processed daily is corroborated by multiple reports, including a recent investigation by Greenpeace, which emphasizes the environmental impact of textile waste in Ghana (source, source).

However, while the sources are reliable, it is important to consider the broader context of textile waste management in Ghana. The Kantomanto Market's role in receiving large quantities of secondhand clothes indicates a complex system of waste generation and disposal that may not be fully captured by the daily processing figures alone. The local population's complaints about the quality of clothes received and the environmental degradation caused by textile waste further complicate the narrative (source).

The reliability of the sources is high, as they include official statements and investigative journalism from reputable organizations. However, the situation is dynamic, and ongoing developments in waste management practices or policies could alter the current figures.

Conclusion

Verdict: Needs Research
While the claim is substantiated by credible sources indicating that Accra can only process 30 tonnes of textile waste daily, leaving 70 tonnes uncollected, further research is needed to understand the full scope of the issue. This includes examining the broader implications of textile waste management, the effectiveness of current practices, and potential solutions to improve waste processing capabilities in the city. The complexity of the situation suggests that while the figures are accurate, they represent only a part of a larger environmental challenge.

Fact Check: Accra can only process 30 tonnes of textile waste daily, leaving 70 tonnes uncollected.