Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Solid WasteManagement Among Households in the UrbanCommunities of Butuan City, Philippines

Abstract

Urban agglomeration in Butuan City led to issues on solid waste management (SWM). The socioeconomic profile and effectiveness of SWM programs were assessed and evaluated through a survey questionnaire. Using a 5-point Likert scale to measure the knowledge, attitude, and practices towards SWM. Key informant interviews and focused group discussions were also conducted. On the average, respondents showed very high SWM knowledge (3.80) and attitude (4.52) which was attributed to high educational attainment and income. Majority of the respondents practice waste segregation (97.9%), reusing (83.8%), recycling (70.4%) and composting (61.3%). However, low knowledge on the location (35.6%), functionality (33.7%), and utilization (51.3%) of the materials recovery facilities was noted, an indication of non-compliance by local government units to SWM laws and policies. A significant number of respondents do not practice composting (38.7%) due to lack of facilities and available space. Clustered materials recovery and composting facilities, and adjustments on waste collection, storage, and disposal systems must be established and implemented. Incentive programs, awareness campaigns, and public participation are key elements of an efficient SWM system.