The National Institute of Statistics and Demography (INStaD) in Benin has initiated a survey to measure waste production in the country's 12 departments. The survey, which began on October 17, 2026, and will run until November 30, 2026, aims to collect data on household and business waste. This effort is being conducted on behalf of the Ministry of Living Environment and Transportation, responsible for sustainable development.
The survey will cover a representative sample of households and businesses in four communes with special status: Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Parakou, and Abomey-Calavi. Additionally, it will include the main towns of the other departments. The primary goal is to measure the quantities of waste produced by households and businesses, identify different categories of waste, and examine current storage and sorting practices.
The data collected will serve as a foundation for designing waste collection and recycling solutions tailored to the realities of Benin's urban and rural areas. The objective is to have precise information to guide interventions in the waste management sector. INStaD has assured citizens that the information collected will be treated with strict anonymity and confidentiality, in full compliance with the laws in force in the Republic of Benin.
Trained investigators, duly mandated by INStaD, will visit selected structures and households to collect data. The institute has invited business leaders and household heads to welcome the collection agents warmly during their visits. It has also requested the collaboration of local and communal elected officials to facilitate the smooth conduct of this operation.
The survey targets to gather comprehensive data that will help in understanding the waste management challenges in Benin. By identifying the types and quantities of waste produced, the survey will enable the development of effective waste management strategies. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing the environmental and health concerns associated with poor waste management.
Effective waste management is crucial for maintaining environmental hygiene and public health. In Benin, like many other countries, inadequate waste management practices have led to environmental degradation and health issues. The survey's findings are expected to inform policies and interventions aimed at improving waste management practices across the country.
The success of the survey depends on the cooperation of households, businesses, and local authorities. INStaD's efforts to ensure the confidentiality of the data collected are expected to encourage participation. The insights gained from this survey will be instrumental in shaping Benin's waste management policies and practices, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Key points
- The survey will run until November 30, 2026, across Benin's 12 departments.
- The data collected will inform the design of waste collection and recycling solutions.
- The survey aims to measure waste production, identify waste categories, and examine storage and sorting practices.
