







































    

 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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21 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

ASSESSMENT OF PLASTIC WASTE AND WEALTH IN ABAKALIKI 

URBAN AREA, SOUTH EAST NIGERIA. 
 
1Obuka Esther Njideka (Ph.D), Chukwuenye Agatha Tochukwu, & Ani Stephen 

Chukwunonso 

Department of Geography & Meteorology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Enugu State University of 

Science & Technology. 

Department of Building, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Enugu State University of Science & Technology. 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11122156 

 

Abstract  

The study examined the assessment of Plastic Waste and Wealth in Abakaliki Urban Area, South East Nigeria. 

The specific objective sought to; Examine the effect of Plastic Lifecycle Analysis on the Wealth creation and 

evaluate the effect of Environmental Impact on the Wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, South East Nigeria. 

The study adopts a quantitative study. A primary source of data was adopted for the study. A well structure 

questionnaires was use to collect data. The questionnaires were design in line with a five-point Likert scale. The 

data was analysed using the structural equation modeling technique with the aid of SmartPLS 4.0. The study 

revealed that plastic lifestyle has significant positive effect on wealth creation given that β=0.218 and P <0.001. 

While environmental impact has significant positive effect on wealth creation given that β=0.240 and P <0.001. 

The study concluded that the assessment of Plastic Waste has significance positive effect on the Wealth in 

Abakaliki Urban Area, South East Nigeria. We recommended that The government should identify and invest in 

companies that are actively adopting sustainable and eco-friendly plastic alternatives. With the growing global 

focus on environmental responsibility, businesses in this sector are likely to experience increased demand, leading 

to potential returns for investors. 

Keywords: Assessment, Plastic, Waste, Wealth 

 

1.1 Introduction  

The proliferation of plastic waste has emerged as a pressing global environmental challenge, demanding rigorous 

attention and innovative solutions. In the urban centers of developing nations, such as Abakaliki in the South East 

of Nigeria, the issue of plastic waste management poses a multifaceted dilemma. Rapid urbanization and 

population growth have led to increased consumption and disposal of plastic products, placing significant strain 

on local waste management systems. Simultaneously, urban areas often exhibit disparities in wealth distribution, 

exacerbating the challenges of equitable plastic waste management. Assessing the relationship between plastic 

waste and wealth within the context of Abakaliki Urban Area offers a critical lens through which to comprehend 

the complex dynamics of urban environmental sustainability and socioeconomic disparities. This research 

endeavor seeks to investigate the intricate interplay between plastic waste generation, disposal practices, and the 

socioeconomic status of residents in Abakaliki. By understanding how plastic waste is produced, managed, and 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET/index; mail: topacademicjournals@gmail.com 

 
 

 

 

22 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

perceived across different wealth strata, we aim to provide valuable insights that can inform policy, community 

engagement, and sustainable development initiatives. 

Plastic waste, characterized by its durability and persistence in the environment, has far-reaching ecological 

consequences, including the contamination of water bodies, harm to wildlife, and contributions to greenhouse gas 

emissions when incinerated. At the same time, the management of plastic waste has direct economic implications, 

as efficient waste collection and recycling systems can create job opportunities and support local industries. 

However, these benefits are often distributed unevenly, with marginalized communities facing greater 

environmental burdens and fewer economic benefits. Wealth distribution in urban areas is an equally pertinent 

issue, as it influences access to resources, services, and opportunities. Abakaliki Urban Area, like many urban 

centers in Nigeria, exhibits disparities in income, education, and access to basic services, which can affect the 

capacity of different groups to cope with and contribute to solutions for plastic waste management. By analyzing 

how plastic waste is generated, discarded, and perceived across various socioeconomic groups, this research will 

shed light on the potential disparities in environmental impacts and vulnerabilities among residents. 

Furthermore, this study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable urban development and 

environmental justice by highlighting the need for inclusive and context-specific strategies to address plastic 

waste challenges. As Abakaliki continues to grow and urbanize, finding innovative approaches to plastic waste 

management that consider the diverse needs and capacities of its residents is not only an environmental imperative 

but also a crucial step toward achieving a more equitable and sustainable urban future. 

1.2 Statement of the Problem 

The rapid proliferation of plastic waste in urban areas of South East Nigeria, including Abakaliki, has raised 

significant environmental and socioeconomic concerns. While plastic waste management is essential for 

environmental sustainability, there is a notable absence of comprehensive research addressing the assessment of 

plastic waste and its potential for wealth generation in the Abakaliki urban area. The lack of effective plastic 

lifecycle analysis management and environmental impact affect the wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, 

South East Nigeria. 

The research aims to contribute to the development of a holistic and sustainable approach to managing plastic 

waste in Abakaliki urban area, ultimately mitigating its adverse environmental impacts while harnessing its 

potential for economic prosperity. 

1.3 Objective of the study  

The main objective of this study is the assessment of Plastic Waste and Wealth in Abakaliki Urban Area, South 

East Nigeria. The specific objective sought to;  

i. Examine the effect of Plastic Lifecycle Analysis on the Wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, South 

East Nigeria. 

ii. Evaluate the effect of Environmental Impact on the Wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, South 

East Nigeria. 

1.4 Hypotheses of the study 

i. Plastic Lifecycle Analysis has no significant effect on the Wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, 

South East Nigeria. 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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23 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

ii. Environmental Impact has no significant effect on the Wealth creation in Abakaliki Urban Area, South 

East Nigeria. 

Review of Related Literature  

2.1 Concept Review 

Plastic Waste 

The concept of plastic waste refers to the disposal or abandonment of plastic materials, products, or items that are 

no longer in use or have reached the end of their lifecycle. Plastic waste has become a global environmental 

concern due to its widespread use, persistence in the environment, and detrimental effects on ecosystems and 

human health. Understanding the concept of plastic waste involves considering its characteristics, sources, 

impacts, management, and potential solutions (Mohamed 2016). The concept of plastic waste represents the 

environmental, social, and economic challenges associated with the widespread use and disposal of plastics. 

Effective plastic waste management requires a multifaceted approach that involves reducing plastic consumption, 

improving waste management infrastructure, and promoting sustainable alternatives to plastics to mitigate its 

negative impacts on the planet (Horodytska et. al, 2019).  

There are four basic things man needs to survive, Air to breath, water to drink, food to eat and land to stand on. 

If plastic waste threatens these four basic needs, then a need for plastic waste management is necessary. The three 

solid waste management strategies are the 3R (Reduce, Reuse and Recycling) (Mohamed 2016, Yosi et al 2019), 

also suggested landfill and Incineration, however, one of the most efficient methods of managing plastic wastes 

is through recycling. Although, plastic litter comes from developing countries, a small amount comes from 

Western countries, primarily due to the limited capacity of collection systems and low recycling rates. However, 

Horodytska et. al, (2019), stressed the need for recycling in order to minimize the amount of waste to be disposed 

to avoid waste from ending up in rivers, oceans and other environments. From the environmental and 

socioeconomic standpoints, the best answer to the problem of how to manage waste plastic is to recycle it 

(Woldemar 2019). 

Characteristics of Plastic Waste: 

1. Diversity of Plastics: Plastic waste comprises a wide range of synthetic polymers, each with varying 

properties, durability, and recyclability. Common plastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), 

polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS). 

2. Persistence: Plastics are highly durable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, slowly 

breaking down into smaller particles known as microplastics. 

3. Versatility: Plastic waste encompasses various forms, including single-use items (e.g., plastic bags, 

bottles, straws), packaging materials, consumer goods, and industrial products. 

Plastic Lifecycle Analysis (LCA) 

Plastic Lifecycle Analysis (LCA), also known as Life Cycle Assessment of Plastics, is a comprehensive and 

systematic methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the entire lifecycle of plastic 

products, from their production to their disposal or recycling (Horodytska et. al, 2019). This analytical tool is 

crucial for understanding the environmental footprint of plastics and identifying opportunities for improvement 

in terms of sustainability and resource efficiency. The concept of Plastic Lifecycle Analysis is instrumental in 

promoting sustainable plastic production and consumption (Yosi et al 2019). It allows for a holistic understanding 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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24 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

of the environmental consequences of plastics, which is essential in a world grappling with plastic pollution and 

climate change. By identifying opportunities for reducing environmental impacts and making informed decisions 

about the design, production, and disposal of plastic products, LCA contributes to the development of more 

sustainable and environmentally friendly plastic materials and practices. It is a valuable tool for researchers, 

industries, and policymakers aiming to address the complex challenges associated with plastics (Yosi et al 2019).  

 

 
Figure 1. Plastic life cycling process. 

The life pattern of plastic items has shown that the traditional straight model from birth to internment is an 

impractical interaction that brings about contamination. Plastics, for all intents and purposes, do not biodegrade, 

so disposed-of waste amasses on the grounds and in the oceans, getting ingested by creatures and delivering 

harmful synthetics to the detriment of our living surroundings. This need not be the situation. There are elective 

pathways plastics can take to evade their ‘destiny’ as waste and poisons 

Environmental Impact 

The concept of environmental impact in the context of plastic waste refers to the wide-ranging and often adverse 

effects that plastic waste has on the natural environment, ecosystems, and human well-being. Plastic waste, due 

to its persistence and widespread use, poses significant environmental challenges, and understanding its 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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25 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

environmental impact is crucial for mitigating its negative consequences. The environmental impact of plastic 

waste involves a multifaceted approach that includes reducing plastic consumption, improving waste management 

practices, promoting recycling and circular economy principles, and developing sustainable alternatives to 

conventional plastics. Government regulations, public awareness campaigns, industry initiatives, and 

international cooperation are all essential components of mitigating the environmental impact of plastic waste 

and fostering a more sustainable relationship with plastics in our society. 

 

 
Figure 2 Impact of plastic waste on the environment. 

There is no denying that plastic is an ingenious material. Composed of long chains of synthetic polymers, plastic 

is strong, light, and highly flexible. It can be manipulated into a multitude of forms, from drinking straws and 

bottles to car parts and diapers. Since the 1907 invention of Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic, the world has been 

plastics crazy. According to Our World in Data, over the past 65 years, annual production of 

plastics increased nearly 200-fold, to 381 million tonnes. Unfortunately, it now turns out, the increasing use of 

this versatile substance has come at a high cost to the planet. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA) and Woods Hole Sea Grant shows that some plastic products can take up to 600 years to 

break down. Landfills are overflowing, oceans are becoming choked, and wildlife is suffering. 

The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2050, oceans will contain more plastic, by weight, than fish. 

The Ocean Cleanup Project has estimated that the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP), about 618,00 square-

mile area of marine debris between Hawaii and California, contains 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic. Such statistics, 

along with distressing photographs of birds and mammals tangled-up in — and even consuming — plastic waste, 

have highlighted the magnitude of the problem. Now, hashtags such as #plasticfree are trending on social media 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

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26 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

as consumers, governments, and companies respond. Data is not only being used to track the whereabouts and 

volume of plastic on our planet; it is supporting the drive to reduce our dependence on it. 

Wealth Creation 

The concept of wealth creation in the area of plastic waste revolves around harnessing the economic potential of 

plastic waste management and recycling initiatives. While plastic waste is often viewed as an environmental 

problem, it also presents opportunities for generating wealth, creating jobs, and contributing to sustainable 

development. the concept of wealth creation in the area of plastic waste signifies the transformation of a perceived 

environmental challenge into an economic opportunity. By adopting sustainable practices, promoting recycling, 

and fostering innovation, societies and economies can not only address plastic waste issues but also generate 

wealth, create jobs, and contribute to a more sustainable and circular approach to plastic use and management. 

Here are key aspects of the concept of wealth creation in the context of plastic waste: 

1. Recycling and Circular Economy: 

• Recycling plastic waste allows for the recovery of valuable materials. This can include the 

collection and processing of plastic bottles, containers, and packaging for reusing them in the 

production of new plastic products. 

• A circular economy approach promotes continuous recycling and upcycling of plastic materials, 

reducing the need for virgin plastic production and conserving resources. 

2. Resource Recovery: 

• Plastic waste contains valuable resources, such as polymers, which can be extracted and used to 

manufacture a wide range of products, including textiles, building materials, and more. 

• The recovery of valuable materials from plastic waste contributes to resource conservation and 

reduces the environmental impact of raw material extraction. 

3. Job Creation: 

• The plastic recycling industry can generate employment opportunities at various levels, from 

collection and sorting to processing and manufacturing. 

• Job creation in plastic waste management can particularly benefit local communities and 

economies. 

4. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: 

• The recycling and repurposing of plastic waste offer fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures 

and innovation. Entrepreneurs can develop new technologies, processes, and business models to 

address plastic waste challenges. 

• Innovation can lead to the creation of new products and services, further contributing to economic 

growth. 

5. Waste-to-Energy: 

• Some regions invest in waste-to-energy facilities that use plastic waste as a source of energy. This 

can contribute to energy production, reducing the demand for fossil fuels. 

• Energy generation from plastic waste can also lead to revenue generation for municipalities or 

waste management companies. 

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Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

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27 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

2.2 Theoretical Review  

The theoretical framework for this study emanated from different models in geographical studies. The diffusion 

model by Haggerstrand (1967) and nearest neighbour analysis by Evans and Clark (1954) were employed in this 

study. It is the hierarchical diffusion which describes transmission through a regular sequence or order of lease. 

This process is typified by the diffusion of innovations. For example, new methods of waste management trickle 

down from advanced societies to less developed societies. The developed countries have efficient waste 

management policies, which are gradually being adapted, in other countries of the world (expansion diffusion). 

With the present technological advancement and the trend towards globalization, waste management has 

improved over time. The diffusion model could be applied to a non-linear function as “S-shaped” curve that 

characterized any diffusion process.  

This could be represented with the equation shown as;  

Where:  

      P = proportion of people accepting a new innovation  

      T = the time, the process of innovation diffusion started, the two variables are linked by three     

            parameters.  

       U = the upper limit  

        a = which determines the values of P, when T is zero.  

        b = a mathematical constant with a value 2.7183  

The conceptual factor, which affects the operations of the PSP scheme mostly, is the distance factor to landfill 

sites. Its location will determine trip frequency time of haulage and invariably cost of transportation of the waste. 

Having realized this factor, government had decentralized the location of landfill sites. As at present, there are 

three landfill sites and PSP operators well encouraged to make use of the nearest landfill sites, so as to reduce 

time and cost and consequently, enhance efficiency. The mode of operation is in line with the distance decay 

concept, which according to Ayeni (2000), was based on a straight-line measurement of distance separating a 

phenomenon and the nearest neighbour space. 

Adetokunbo and Herbert (2003) submitted that management of waste is a key element in the protection of public 

health, because failure to manage waste properly exposes people to increased risk of infectious diseases. Waste 

management is the selection and application of suitable techniques, technologies and management programmes 

to achieve specific waste management objectives and goals. Waste management for non-hazardous residential 

and institutional waste in metropolitan areas are usually the responsibility of Local Government Authorities, while 

hazardous commercial and industrial waste is usually the responsibility of the waste generator. According to 

Ogunleye and Ibitoye (2006), improper disposal of solid waste constitutes ‘serious threat to human health and to 

the achievement of sound environmental sanitation’. Igbanugo (1986) submitted that refuse dumpsites are 

converted to urinal and defection sites by destitutes, invaded by scavengers and animals, and served as breeding 

ground for disease vectors (flies, rodents, etc). Also, accumulated garbage and rubbish become eye sore in the 

community, and pollute the air, and act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other harmful insects; they also 

encourage street folding. 

 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

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28 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

3. Methodology 

This is a quantitative study conducted in the urban area of Abakiliki south east Nigeria, by collecting empirical 

data from selected sample. Positivism pattern believes in an inferential approach where researchers agree on 

previous investigated studies and further investigate by collecting empirical data in a different context. More 

precisely, researchers agree with previous theory and conduct the study to prove it whether true or false. This 

study is following a quantitative method to test four hypotheses proposed in relation to the assessment of plastic 

waste and wealth in Abakiliki Urban south east Nigeria. The sample for this study is a relatively large group of 

people in residing within these urban areas. Simple random sampling technique applied to get a response from 

the selected population that every respondent has an equal opportunity being selected. This study collected 362 

questionnaires to investigate assessment of plastic waste and wealth in Abakiliki Urban south east Nigeria. To test 

the hypotheses, 344 data utilized after data screening and structural equation modelling applied for the analysis 

and questionnaire distributed by the researchers directly. 

Measures 

The plastic waste and environment impact was measured by developing a measurement item that agrees with each 

of the variables. The outcome variable is wealth creation. All items were scored with a five-point Likert scale, 

ranging from (1) strongly disagree to (5) strongly agree. This construct reflects assessment of plastic waste and 

wealth in Abakiliki Urban south east Nigeria. 

 

4. Data Analyses and Hypotheses Results 

Table 1 shows the demographic distribution of the respondents for gender, marital status, age, education level and 

working experience in the industry. The study was analysed using the structural equation modeling technique with 

the aid of SmartPLS 4.0. 

Table 1: Demographic Profile of the Respondents (n = 344) 

Characteristics Frequency Percentage 

Gender 

 

Male 

Female 

 

187 

157 

 

54 

46 

Marital Status 

Single 

Married 

 

145 

199 

 

42 

58 

Age(Years) 

20 -29 yrs. 

30-39 yrs. 

40-49 yrs. 

50-59 yrs. 

60 yrs. 

 

90 

105 

58 

77 

14 

 

26 

31 

17 

22 

4 

Academic Qualification 

B.sc/HND 

Masters 

PhD 

Others 

 

189 

102 

17 

36 

 

55 

30 

5 

10 

Experience 

1-5 

 

135 

 

39 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

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1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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29 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

6-10 

11-14 

15 and above 

94 

61 

54 

27 

18 

16 

 

As shown in Table 1, for gender, 54% of the respondents are male, and 46% are female. Majority of the 

respondents are married, which is 58% and single are 42%. In terms of age group, highest age group consists of 

"30 to 39years" which is 31% followed by "20 to 29 years" which is 26%, "50 to 59 years" 22%, "40 to 49 years" 

17% and 60 years and above is 4%. For academic qualification, majority of the respondents are bachelor and 

master's degree holder, which are 55% and 30% respectively, while PhD and Others recorded the least response 

with 5% and10% respectively. While looking into the job experience of the respondents, most of them have 

experiences of 1 to 5 years, followed by 6 to 10 years is 27%, 11-14 years is 11% and more than 15 years is 16%. 

 

Study Results 

The researchers examined the data using PLS-SEM to examine the assessment of plastic waste and wealth in 

Abakiliki Urban south east Nigeria. We report results using a level of significance at p<.01 and p<.001. 

 

Table 2: Construct Validity and Reliability 

 

In developing the study variable, several important measures were followed to constructs validity and reliability 

and content validity. For content validity, different operational was evaluated by studying the existing literature 

and measurement used that contains multiples items. Both the confirmatory and exploratory analysis confirm the 

factorability of the variables. Figure 1 represents the factor loading of individual items. Only few items show the 

loading above 0.40, and the remaining items in the model exceeded the suggested loading of 0.70. All the 

constructs are shown in table 2 that none of the variable Cronbach alpha less than 0.70. Furthermore, composite 

reliability was above the accepted level. To ensure the convergent validity, the average variance extracted also 

checked and showed all variable exceeded the recommended value of 0. So, all the variables confirm content 

validity and reliability. 

 

  

  Cronbach's 

Alpha 

rho_A Composite 

Reliability 

Average Variance 

Extracted (AVE) 

Wealth creation 0.861 0.868 0.906 0.706 

Plastics lifecycle analysis 0.840 0.862 0.876 0.505 

Environmental Impact 0.790 0.819 0.862 0.610 

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30 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Table 3: Factor loadings of the construct 

 PLA ENI WC Comments 

PLA1 0.693   >.40 

PLA2 0.601   >.40 

PLA3 0.743   >.40 

PLA4 0.653   >.40 

PLA5 0.800   >.40 

PLA6 0.714   >.40 

PLA7 0.754   >.40 

ENI1  0.840  >.40 

ENI2  0.762  >.40 

ENI3  0.774  >.40 

ENI4  0.774  >.40 

WC1   0.836 >.40 

WC2   0.817 >.40 

WC3   0.897 >.40 

WC4   0.808 >.40 

 

Table 3 shows the factor loading of individual items which is above >.40 threshold and confirms the confirmatory 

factor analysis. To evaluate the discriminant validity of the 4-variables is used in the study, Heterotrait-and 

Monotrait (HTMT) analysis was executed. 

 

Table 4: Discriminant Validity (HTMT) 

  Wealth creation Plastic lifestyle 

analysis 

Environmental 

impact 

Wealth creation       

Plastic lifestyle analysis 0.587     

Environmental impact 0.580 0.813   

 

Result of confirmatory factor analysis shown in table 4 supports the empirical evidence of the uniqueness of most 

of the variables. It is pertinent to state that the values in bold in the above table indicated discriminant validity 

problems according to HTMT0.85 criterion. This implies that the HTMT criterion detects collinearity problem 

among latent construct.  However, all the variable is ensured of the discriminant validity for further analysis by 

maintaining that no correlation exceeds the limit of HTMT. 

Structural Equation Modelling 

In Smart-PLS, to observe the effects of independent variables on the dependent variable, normally two steps 

followed are measurement model and structural model. Some of the criterions, such as construct validity and 

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31 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

reliability already discussed above. In addition to that in the structural modelling equation R square also shown 

for the predictive ability of independent variables on the dependent variables. The value of R2 (0.591) indicates 

that the 59.1% of the variation in wealth creation is caused by the two independent selected variables. 

Additionally, for the model fit SRMR value was examined, which is 0.038 means model is a good fit 

 

Table 5: The Direct effect of plastic lifecycle analysis and environmental impact on the wealth creation of 

Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria 

  Original 

Sample 

(O) 

Sample 

Mean 

(M) 

Standard 

Deviation 

(STDEV) 

T Statistics 

(|O/STDEV|) 

P Values 

Plastic lifecycle analysis -> Wealth 

creation 

0.218 0.222 0.049 4.490 0.000 

Environmental impacts -> Wealth creation 0.240 0.231 0.058 4.159 0.000 

 

In structural modelling, the total of four hypotheses was examined through the use of empirical data collected 

from the individual living within the urban area of Abakiliki south east, Nigeria. All the two hypotheses were 

accepted. For a better presentation, Table 5 shows the p-value and t-value. There is a clear evidence that we will 

accept all the hypothesis presented in this study such that plastic lifecycle analysis and environmental impact are 

statistically significant and have a positive effect on the wealth creation in Abakiliki urban south east, Nigeria. 

Summary of the test of hypothesis 

Hypothesis One 

H0: Plastic lifestyle analysis has no significant effect on wealth creation in Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria 

H1: Plastic lifestyle analysis has a significant effect on wealth creation in Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria 

Conclusion Table 5 above suggest that plastic lifestyle analysis is statistically significant and have a 

positive effect on wealth creation given that β=0.218 and P <0.001. We therefore conclude 

that a unit change in plastic lifecycle analysis will cause a corresponding unit increase in 

wealth creation in Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria. 

 

Hypothesis Two 

H0: Environmental impact has no significant effect on wealth creation in Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria. 

H1: Environmental impact has a significant effect on wealth creation in Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria. 

Conclusion Table 5 above suggest that environmental impact is statistically significant and have a 

positive effect on wealth creation given that β=0.240 and P <0.001. We therefore conclude 

that a unit change in environmental impact will cause a unit increase in wealth creation in 

Abakiliki urban southeast Nigeria. 

 

 

 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET/index; mail: topacademicjournals@gmail.com 

 
 

 

 

32 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Conclusion  

In conclusion, the assessment reveals a complex yet hopeful landscape in the interplay between plastic waste and 

wealth in Abakaliki Urban Area. While challenges persist, the study emphasizes the potential for positive change 

through strategic interventions, community involvement, and the cultivation of a circular economy mindset. By 

integrating the recommendations outlined in this research, Abakaliki has the opportunity to not only address its 

plastic waste management challenges but also to create a thriving, sustainable, and economically prosperous urban 

environment for current and future generations. The plastic lifecycle analysis and environmental impact are 

statistically significant and have a positive effect on the wealth creation in Abakiliki urban south east, Nigeria. 

We therefore, concluded that the assessment of Plastic Waste has significance positive effect on the Wealth in 

Abakaliki Urban Area, South East Nigeria. 

Recommendation  

The analysis underscores the correlation between sustainable plastic practices and enhanced wealth creation, 

shedding light on several key areas that businesses and individuals can leverage for financial gain. Here are some 

key recommendations based on the study: 

i. The government should identify and invest in companies that are actively adopting sustainable and 

eco-friendly plastic alternatives. With the growing global focus on environmental responsibility, 

businesses in this sector are likely to experience increased demand, leading to potential returns for 

investors. 

ii. The government should Encourage and invest in research and development initiatives focused on 

green technologies. The development of innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture, waste 

management, and clean energy can present lucrative opportunities for patents, creating a competitive 

advantage in the market. 

 

Reference  

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http://fac.ksu.edu.sa/melnewehy. 

mailto:topacademicjournals@gmail.com
http://fac.ksu.edu.sa/melnewehy


    

 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 08, Issue 4; July -August 2023; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET/index; mail: topacademicjournals@gmail.com 

 
 

 

 

33 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

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