Assessing the Sustainable Housing Outcomes Of Urban Environmental 311 Management in a Circular Economy: A Mixed-Methods Household Study In Lapai, Nigeria.

Abstract

Rapid urbanisation in secondary cities of developing countries is intensifying challenges related to housing quality, environmental degradation, and inefficient resource use. This study assessed the sustainable housing outcomes of urban environmental management within a circular economy framework, focusing on households in Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria. Anchored on SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), the study adopted a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected through a structured household survey administered to approximately 300 residential units. Qualitative insights were obtained from key informant interviews with urban planners, environmental health officers, and community representatives. Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analysis were employed to examine the influence of urban environmental management practices such as waste management, water and sanitation services, and neighbourhood environmental maintenance on sustainable housing indicators including habitability, environmental quality, and resource efficiency. Qualitative data were analysed thematically to provide deeper understanding of household experiences and institutional practices. The findings revealed that waste management, access to improved water and sanitation, and regular neighbourhood environmental maintenance have a significant positive effect on sustainable housing outcomes in Lapai. However, there is low public awareness and adoption of circular economy practices at the household level, particularly in material reuse, waste management, and energy conservation, due to weak institutional capacity and inadequate enforcement of environmental regulations. The study concludes that strengthening urban environmental governance and mainstreaming circular economy principles into household practices are essential to enhance sustainable housing outcomes. These findings provide policyrelevant evidence for implementing SDGs 11 and 12, while contributing to SDG 13 (climate action) through improved urban resource efficiency and environmental management.