6. A preliminary study on the current status of generation, management, and proposed solutions for used cooking oil in Ninh Kieu and Tan An wards, Can Tho city

Abstract

Used Cooking Oil (UCO) is an increasingly concerning environmental and public health issue in rapidly urbanizing areas such as Ninh Kieu and An Khanh wards, Can Tho city. This study was conducted to assess the current generation status, usage patterns, and management practices of UCO by households and businesses in the area. Concurrently, the research also surveyed the community's awareness of the negative impacts of UCO and gathered opinions for effective management solutions. The main research method was a quantitative survey through direct interviews with 30 subjects (15 households and 15 businesses) in Ninh Kieu and Tan An wards. The results indicate a significant amount of UCO generation, particularly from food businesses, with their average consumption being many times higher than that of households. Current common UCO disposal methods include direct discharge into drains, disposal into general waste bins, or selling to informal collectors, posing numerous environmental and health risks. Although general awareness about not reusing cooking oil multiple times is quite good, specific understanding of the extensive harm of UCO to ecosystems and related diseases remains limited. Notably, the locality currently lacks a formal and effective UCO management system, as well as awareness-raising communication activities. The study underscores the urgent need to develop comprehensive UCO management solutions, including establishing a suitable collection system, enhancing educational communication, and issuing policies to encourage and support community participation.