Interested in Applying for Cohort 5 in January 2027?

Optimizing Waste Management in Liberia

Project Category:

Research & Innovation

This research project explores the state of waste management in Paynesville, Liberia, with the goal of identifying scalable solutions to improve public sanitation and infrastructure. I am motivated by observing the visible waste accumulation along public beaches and streets. I want to understand how local residents and small waste management businesses handle waste, and what systemic challenges they face. Through interviews with private sector actors and community leaders, I will gather insights into behavioral patterns, economic constraints, and logistical barriers that hinder effective waste disposal.

Using my background in computer science, I plan to develop a simple algorithm or decision-making tool that helps small waste management businesses identify optimal collection routes and service areas, based on variables like population density and income levels. The tool can also be used by ngo and government organizations to find optimal locations for trash cans. I will also compare waste management models in Liberia and similar low- to middle-income countries to find practical approaches that can be adapted for Paynesville. Ultimately, the project seeks to contribute to a more efficient, data-informed waste management system that promotes cleaner cities and greater environmental awareness in Liberia.

Project Lead(s)

Evan Omeje

Key Objectives & Goals

1.Understand local waste management practices in Paynesville

2. Develop a simple, data-driven tool to help small waste businesses optimize service areas based on population density, income levels, and accessibility.

3. Compare Paynesville’s system to successful models in similar low- to middle-income countries to identify adaptable, scalable strategies.

Project Process & Activities

Research & Background Study: I start by reviewing existing information on waste management practices in Liberia and other similar countries. This helped me understand common challenges and opportunities in waste management.

Fieldwork & Interviews: I will conduct interviews with local waste management businesses, residents, and community leaders in Paynesville to learn about current practices, problems, and attitudes toward waste disposal.

Data Collection: I will survey local areas to gather data on population density, waste patterns, and income levels to understand the factors affecting waste management in Paynesville.

Tool Development: I will create a simple algorithm to help small businesses optimize waste collection routes based on collected data (e.g., population density, income).

Comparative Analysis: I compared Paynesville’s waste management practices with those in Monrovia and other similar cities to find strategies that could work for Paynesville.

Sharing Results: I plan to present the findings and the tool to local businesses and stakeholders, with suggestions for improving waste management in the area.

Project Outcomes & Deliverables

Data-Driven Tool: A basic algorithm designed to help small waste management businesses in Paynesville optimize their collection routes based on key factors like population density and income levels.

Research Report: A comprehensive report summarizing the findings from interviews, data collection, and comparative analysis, which will include recommendations for improving waste management practices in Paynesville.

Presentation: A PowerPoint presentation outlining the project’s findings, the tool developed, and suggested next steps for local stakeholders and businesses.

Challenges & Learnings

Understanding my needs assessment and figuring out the right questions to ask.

Future Plans & How To Get Involved

I would like to share my project with key business leaders in Liberia to demonstrate that waste management can be profitable in the country. Yes, I plan to continue working on it after my internship, as I see long-term potential in the project, especially with the algorithm I will develop using primitive data