Assessing how local regulatory frameworks and economic incentives, along with firm characteristics, staff training, and cultural factors, influence waste management practices among SMEs in the Volta and Oti regions.

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of local regulatory frameworks, economic incentives, firm characteristics, staff training, and cultural factors on waste management practices among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana’s Volta and Oti regions. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 219 respondents through structured surveys and analysed using descriptive statistics, MANOVA, and regression analysis. Findings reveal significant regional disparities, with SMEs in the Volta Region outperforming those in the Oti Region in key areas, such as waste segregation, employee training, and digital tool adoption.

Waste minimisation strategies, particularly prefabrication (β = 0.494), digital tools (β = 0.424), and material reuse (β = 0.212), were strongly correlated with perceived effectiveness. Regulatory frameworks (β = 0.255) and economic incentives (β = 0.150) significantly enhanced waste management, though firm characteristics (β = 0.269) emerged as the strongest predictor. Challenges included high costs, limited recycling infrastructure, and skill gaps.

The study recommends strengthening regulatory enforcement, providing targeted financial incentives, investing in employee training, and promoting the adoption of technology to improve waste management practices. These measures can support sustainable construction practices, reduce environmental impact, and align with Ghana’s broader sustainability goals. The findings contribute to the discourse on waste management in resource-constrained settings, offering actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders.