Regulating Hazardous Waste Disposal in Nigeria and the United States: A Comparative Assessment

Abstract

This article undertakes a comparative study of the regulation and control of hazardous waste disposal in Nigeria and the United States, focusing on how both jurisdictions respond to the growing challenges of environmental pollution. It adopts a doctrinal and comparative legal methodology, drawing primarily on statutory instruments, case law, international conventions, and relevant academic literature. The study is also informed by a socio-legal perspective, particularly in assessing how laws operate in practice within differing institutional and enforcement contexts. Hazardous waste remains a major global concern due to its toxic, persistent, and often irreversible impact on human health, biodiversity, and ecological systems. The transboundary movement of such waste further complicates regulatory control, especially where jurisdictional boundaries limit effective monitoring and enforcement. In Nigeria and the United States, different legal traditions and institutional capacities shape how hazardous waste is managed, regulated, and sanctioned. The article examines statutory frameworks, judicial interpretations, and the role of regulatory agencies and non-governmental organisations in promoting compliance and environmental accountability. It further evaluates enforcement challenges, particularly within Nigeria, where gaps in implementation and institutional weakness persist. By contrasting these experiences, the study identifies key strengths and deficiencies in both systems. Ultimately, it argues for stronger regulatory coordination, improved enforcement mechanisms, and enhanced international cooperation to prevent illegal dumping and ensure sustainable environmental governance.