Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions for Small Food Producers in Urban West African Cities: An Urban Environmental Management Survey

Urban West African cities face significant environmental challenges due to rapid urbanization and industrial development. Small food producers in these areas often lack adequate waste management infrastructure, leading to substantial pollution from improper disposal of packaging materials. A comprehensive survey was conducted among small food producers across four major urban centers in Kenya. The survey collected data using questionnaires that included open-ended questions to gather detailed insights into current packaging practices and preferences for eco-friendly alternatives. Approximately 75% of respondents indicated a preference for biodegradable materials over traditional plastics, highlighting the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The findings suggest that integrating biodegradable packaging into small food production processes could significantly reduce waste and pollution in urban environments. Local governments should provide subsidies or grants to support the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials by small food producers. Educational programmes on environmental stewardship should also be promoted to increase awareness among producers.