INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Solid waste refers to discarded solid materials resulting from human and animal activities, and it can be classified by contents, hazard potential, or origin Content classification includes materials such as plastic, paper, metal, glass, and organic waste Hazard potential categorizes waste as toxic, non-toxic, radioactive, flammable, or infectious Additionally, the origin of waste can be traced back to industrial, domestic, construction, commercial, or demolition sources (LeBlanc, 2016).
Effective solid waste management (SWM) is essential for ensuring environmental hygiene, regardless of how waste is classified—by content, hazard potential, or origin To achieve a clean environment, various programs, rules, and regulations have been established to support systematic waste management efforts (LeBlanc, 2016).
SWM, or solid waste management, aims to reduce or eliminate the negative environmental and health effects caused by improper waste treatment This comprehensive approach encompasses various practices, including monitoring, collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of waste (LeBlanc, 2016).
Waste management in the Philippines has been a critical issue for decades, exacerbated by modernization, urbanization, and rapid population growth in urban areas The lack of effective waste management implementation by local and national governments, hindered by financial, human, and technical resource shortages, has led to significant environmental and health challenges.
Urban areas like Los Baños, Laguna, have faced significant challenges in implementing effective Solid Waste Management (SWM) programs due to increased waste production, rapid urbanization, population growth, and lack of community discipline These issues have resulted in severe land and water pollution, prompting the local government to enforce six Municipal Ordinances and one Memorandum Order aimed at improving solid waste management practices.
Statement of the Problem
A study conducted in Los Baños revealed that the rising population has led to an increase in waste generation, with daily production reaching 33 to 35 tons (Rustia, 2001) From 1980 to 2001, the area faced smog issues due to waste burning, unorganized and mixed waste at dumpsites, and litter dispersed across the streets, highlighting households as significant contributors to this waste problem.
In his report on Local Ecological Governance, Mayor Caesar Perez highlighted significant challenges in solid waste management, primarily due to a lack of community involvement and discipline He emphasized that the ongoing increase in urbanization and population is exacerbating issues such as air and water pollution.
“Garbage problem is not sole responsibility of the government; the citizens must do their share on proper waste disposal” (Perez, 2009)
With this, the study was conducted to answer the following questions:
1 What are the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents in Los Baủos, Laguna, Philippines?
2 What are the types and nature of solid wastes produced in the coastal barangays of Los Baủos?
3 What are the household’s level of knowledge & attitude, and practices regarding Solid Waste Management?
4 What are the relationships of the respondents’ income and educational attainment with their level of knowledge, attitude and positive practices (KAP) in Solid Waste Management?
5 How does the household’s level of knowledge, attitude and positive practices related to each other in relation to solid waste management?
Significance of the Study
The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste management among selected households in the coastal barangays of Los Baños, as well as to identify the types and quantities of solid waste generated The significant amount of waste produced poses challenges for effective Municipal Solid Waste Management (Desta, Worku, and Fetene, 2013).
The study's findings aim to enhance community awareness regarding the detrimental effects of improper waste management on both the environment and public health Additionally, the results provide valuable insights into household solid waste management practices in Los Baños, assisting the municipality in developing new programs to improve and sustain existing solid waste management initiatives.
Based on the collected information, a set of recommendations for improved management of household solid waste will be presented, benefiting the community, government, environmentalists, and organizations alike.
Objectives of the Study
The study focused on evaluating the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste management among households in selected coastal barangays of Los Baños.
1 Describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents;
2 Describe the types and nature of solid wastes produced in the coastal barangays of Los Baủos;
3 Correlate the respondents’ income and educational attainment with its relationship on household’s Knowledge, Attitude and Positive Practices; and
4 Correlate the respondents’ Knowledge, Attitude and Positive Practices with each other in relation to solid waste management luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
Hypotheses of the Study
Based on the objectives of the study, the following hypotheses were formulated:
1 The selected households of the coastal barangays in Los Baủos have: a High knowledge in relation to solid waste management; b Positive attitude in relation to solid waste management
2 The selected households practices proper disposal of their solid wastes;
3 The respondents’ income and educational attainment is positively correlated to their level of Knowledge, Attitude and Positive Practices in Solid Waste Management; and
4 The respondents have positive correlation between: a Knowledge and Attitude b Knowledge and Positive Practices c Attitude and Positive Practices
Limitations of the Study
While the study successfully achieved its objectives, it primarily concentrated on the respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste management, without exploring other influencing factors Key variables such as the impact of environmental awareness and behavior on these aspects were not assessed Additionally, due to time limitations and insufficient manpower, the study relied on respondents' estimates for waste production, rather than precise measurements.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Household Solid Wastes and its Effect on the Environment
Household solid wastes can be primarily classified into three categories: biodegradable wastes, non-biodegradable wastes, and universal wastes, according to The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
Biodegradable wastes, including food scraps and fruit and vegetable peels, contribute approximately 3.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, impacting around 1.4 billion hectares of land This situation threatens agriculture, leads to biodiversity loss, and increases the demand for food production, which can result in the overexploitation of natural resources (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations – FAO, 2013) Additionally, yard trimmings like leaves and grass, when burned, release harmful chemicals such as carbon monoxide and benzopyrene, causing air pollution and serious health issues like asthma, lung cancer, and heart diseases (Ong).
Littering, whether intentional or unintentional, contributes to excessive nutrient levels in lakes and rivers, leading to a decline in water quality (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, n.d.) Additionally, animal feces can pollute water sources and pose significant health risks to humans, including diseases such as diarrhea, anemia, and hepatitis, due to the presence of infectious microorganisms like Cryptosporidium parvum, Ancylostoma spp., Necator spp., and Giardia lamblia cysts (World Health Organization).
Non-biodegradable wastes, including plastics, metals, and glass, contain harmful chemical compounds that do not degrade and instead release pollutants like carbon monoxide and methane, contributing to global warming and environmental degradation These pollutants lead to air and water pollution, depletion of natural resources, and a decline in biodiversity and overall welfare (Uwera, 2013; Pongrácz, 2007).
Universal wastes, including batteries, electronic devices, appliances, and light bulbs, can contain hazardous chemicals like copper, lead, and mercury If not disposed of properly, these substances can leach into the environment, leading to land and water contamination This poses significant risks to human health, soil quality, and biodiversity (Latimer, 2015).
All in all, any type of waste may cause a certain degree of harm in the environment depending on its quantity and how it is disposed or treated (Alam & Ahmade, 2013).
Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries
Developing countries are grappling with significant challenges in solid waste management, primarily driven by rapid urbanization and population growth, leading to increased solid waste generation in urban areas (Desta, Worku & Fetene, 2013).
A study by Desta, Worku, and Fetene (2013) evaluated the Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) practices in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, highlighting significant challenges due to the massive generation of waste, which reached 2,750 m³ daily Only 65% of this waste was collected and transported to landfills, while 35% was disposed of improperly, leading to environmental pollution The study identified key factors contributing to poor waste management, including insufficient budgets, malfunctioning equipment, illegal disposal practices, and inadequate governance Additionally, the rapid population growth and unplanned urban expansion exacerbated the waste management crisis, emphasizing the need for early stakeholder involvement and continuous public awareness in the planning process.
Taxil City in Pakistan faces significant waste management challenges due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and inadequate funding and management Approximately 54,850 tons of waste are generated daily in urban areas, with less than 50% being collected This inefficiency leads to pollution of land and water resources, the spread of infectious diseases, deterioration of the drainage system, and threats to the city's biodiversity (Ejaz & Janjua, 2012).
The study by Fei-Baffoe, Nyankson, and Miah (2014) identified significant constraints to effective solid waste management in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research revealed that financial limitations hinder the continuous waste collection services In this context, residents in high-class areas are charged $1.46 monthly, those in middle-class zones pay $1.17, while low-class areas are only required to pay $0.06.
Ineffective waste management services are primarily hindered by a shortage of qualified personnel, inadequate equipment for efficient waste collection, and insufficient law enforcement stemming from a lack of political will at the municipal level.
Studies indicate that essential resources like financial support, manpower, and technical assistance are insufficient to manage the rising levels of waste generation Consequently, not all waste is collected or disposed of properly, leading to significant environmental pollution that adversely affects human health and economic growth.
People’s Knowledge, Attitude and Practices about Solid Wastes
The cooperation of the public people was deemed necessary in obtaining an efficient solid waste management (Kumar & Nandini, 2013)
In a study conducted by Kumar and Nandini (2013) in Bangalore City, Karnataka, India, the researchers explored community attitudes and perceptions towards solid waste management The findings revealed that a significant portion of residents showed indifference towards the final disposal of waste Specifically, 37% of respondents felt there were no issues as their waste was collected and there were ample disposal areas such as roads and open spaces Additionally, 34% cited low income levels, prioritizing survival over waste management, while others believed it was the responsibility of the government and municipalities to handle waste disposal.
Ambat and Saharsh (2003) identified poor community participation as a key factor contributing to the inefficiency of waste management programs A study conducted in Thiruvananthapuram City, India, revealed that many residents believed solid waste management was solely the responsibility of government officials However, after engaging in a waste management program, 88% of participants reported a shift in their attitudes and behaviors, recognizing their role as waste producers and the importance of their involvement in effective solid waste management.
The studies completed by Kumar and Nandini (2013) and Ambat and Saharsh
(2003) highlighted the importance of the public’s cooperation in attaining an efficient solid waste management, on the other hand, studies done by Banga (2011) and Jatau
(2013) stressed on the relationship of the respondents’ level of awareness and their practices in solid waste management
A study by Banga (2011) employed descriptive analysis and a binary outcome model to assess household knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste segregation and recycling in Urban Kampala, Uganda The findings revealed that participation in solid waste separation activities is influenced by various factors, including the community's awareness of recycling initiatives and socio-economic characteristics such as household income, education level, and gender.
A study conducted in 2013 examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to waste management in Jos South Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria Utilizing descriptive analysis, chi-square, and t-tests, the findings revealed that individuals with higher education levels demonstrated greater awareness of the health impacts of improper waste management compared to those with lower education levels Despite this, both groups exhibited positive waste management practices Furthermore, respondents aged 31 and older showed more favorable attitudes toward waste management than those aged 15 to 30; however, age did not significantly influence attitudes, whereas education level had a statistically significant impact on both knowledge and practices related to waste management.
Probable Solutions for Solid Waste Management Problems
Many developing nations face challenges in managing the increasing solid waste generated within their borders, struggling to find effective and sustainable solutions However, some towns have successfully implemented modern strategies for solid waste management, showcasing innovative approaches to address these pressing issues (Atienza, 2008).
A study by Atienza (2008) examined the role of resident cooperation and involvement in decision-making processes as an effective approach to solid waste management in underdeveloped countries Analyzing related literature and conducting surveys in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines, the research identified four key factors highlighting the significance of community engagement in waste management Notably, the study emphasized that as the population grows, the volume of waste generated increases, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts in managing solid waste effectively.
The challenges of solid waste management stem primarily from human behavior, highlighting that people are a significant part of the problem However, with proper handling, waste can also serve as a potential source of income Effective solutions cannot be achieved by government efforts alone; community involvement is crucial in addressing solid waste management issues.
“…the solution to solid waste management problems does not always mean using expensive and advanced technologies, but rather identifying the local and appropriate technologies in the community.”
Remy (2012) highlighted that despite various community efforts, local waste management issues remain unresolved An analysis of regulations and decisions in 29 countries revealed that effective municipal solid waste management (MSWM) systems rely on economic, social, and political strategies, alongside modern technologies The study identified legislative shortcomings as a significant challenge in waste management, noting that a lack of knowledge among stakeholders can hinder progress, leading to a direct correlation between waste generation and income levels, with lower-income countries facing greater difficulties in managing waste effectively.
A study by Rushbrook and Finnecy (1988) highlighted the complexities of waste management in developing countries, revealing that financial, public, and racial factors significantly influence waste management issues To achieve effective waste management, it is essential to establish a well-planned judicial framework, along with comprehensive rules and executive strategies Additionally, support from foreign experts and administrations is crucial for providing recommendations, training, and technological assistance.
However, all in all, solving a nation’s solid waste management problems can only be done by its own people.
Household Solid Waste Management in the Philippines
The growing population at the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) has resulted in a lack of access to a sanitary dumpsite, causing residents to resort to disposing of waste in an open dumpsite (C Ultra & A Ultra, 2013).
C Ultra and A Ultra (2013) conducted a study to evaluate solid waste management practices among households in the UEP premises, utilizing descriptive analysis The research revealed that common waste types include kitchen scraps, paper, cans, and bottles While some households in Barangay Zones I and II engage in burning waste, many consider cans and bottles as reusable, either for storage or resale to junkshops However, challenges in waste management persist, including vehicle breakdowns leading to collection delays, a lack of awareness regarding proper disposal methods, low household participation in effective waste dumping, and insufficient government funding for solid waste management initiatives.
In contrast to the household practices outlined in UEP, residents in the villages of Metro Manila, Philippines, generally do not engage in burning solid waste or composting, as they believe that waste collection and disposal is the government's responsibility Some respondents, however, acknowledged that they often leave their garbage in non-designated pickup areas, such as street corners This information is derived from a study conducted by Bernardo (2008), which utilized open-ended questions during interviews with household members.
A study by Premakumara (2011) revealed that households in Cebu City, Philippines, are largely unaware of the environmental consequences of improper solid waste disposal The urban area struggles with inadequate waste collection services due to limited budget and manpower, leading many residents to resist paying additional fees for waste collection, viewing it as a responsibility of the Barangay However, some households engage in selling recyclable materials to collectors, and a few have a basic understanding of composting and incorporate it into their gardening practices.
Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000
By 20 th of December 2000, Republic Act (RA) of the Philippines 9003 or also known the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act was handed by the Philippine Congress and was permitted on 26 th of January 2001 by the Office of the President to address and respond to the garbage problems in the country (Aquino, Deriquito & Festejo, 2013)
R.A No 9003 is a state policy of adopting an efficient, widespread and environmental solid waste management program of the Philippines, which is to guarantee the security of the environment and public health It is a mandatory law which gives emphasis to the urgency of making the essential organized system & inducement, and punishments to the violators (NSWMC, 2005b cited in Sapuay,
2014) Wherein, the implementation of the policies and regulation under R.A No luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
9003 are enclosed in the Philippines DENR Administrative Order No 2001 – 34 (NSWMC, 2001 cited in Sapuay, 2014)
Accordingly, a total of 103 cities out of 109 were able to organize their Solid Waste Management Board (SWMBs) with the provisions of R.A No 9003 in year
In 2004, among 103 cities, only 49 had effective Solid Waste Management Boards (SWMBs) responsible for preparing and supervising the Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) These boards collaborate with private sectors and NGOs to recommend ecosystem preservation methods and pollution security measures, while also proposing actions such as franchises or Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreements for various waste management processes, including collection, transfer, storage, processing, recycling, and disposal (Torres, 2009).
Policies and regulations impose strict penalties for environmental violations, including open burning of waste, which can result in fines ranging from Php300 to Php1,000 and/or imprisonment for 1 to 15 days Similar penalties apply to littering and dumping waste in public areas, canals, or estuaries The establishment or operation of open dumpsites incurs a hefty fine of Php500,000 for the first offense and 1 to 3 years of imprisonment for subsequent offenses Additionally, Section 52 empowers citizens to file legal action against individuals or public officials who neglect to enforce these laws.
Under Republic Act No 9003, Local Government Units are tasked with the implementation and enforcement of waste management, with barangays responsible for the collection and segregation of biodegradable, compostable, and reusable solid wastes Meanwhile, cities and municipalities handle the collection of non-recyclable materials and special wastes.
Solid Waste Management in Los Baủos, Laguna, Philippines
A study by Atienza (2008) titled “Breakthrough in Solid Waste Management through Participation and Community Mobilization: The Experience of Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines” highlights key factors for effective solid waste management programs It notes that many developing countries struggle with implementation due to limited resources such as funding and manpower However, the Municipality of Los Baños successfully improved its solid waste management through community participation and strict enforcement of related regulations.
Figure 1 Organization Structure of the Solid Waste Management Program in
The study by Atienza (2008) highlights the crucial role of community participation in achieving effective solid waste management, using the municipality of Los Baños as a model Similarly, Alaira (2007) investigates sustainability indicators from the perspectives of business and civil sectors, focusing on solid waste management in Los Baños Utilizing descriptive analysis along with Chi-square and Spearman’s Correlation tests, the research identifies six key factors influencing sustainability: consultative processes, legal frameworks, the presence of solid waste management units, established plans and programs, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and evidence of environmental impacts.
Unlike Alaira's (2007) study, which focused on the business and civil sectors, Rustia's (2001) research examined household-level environmental awareness in Los Baños Through descriptive analysis, linear regression, and correlation analysis, it was found that while households possess high levels of environmental awareness, knowledge, and attitudes, their actual environmental behaviors are lacking Key obstacles to effective waste management include a lack of initiative to segregate waste, the belief that local government units (LGUs) are solely responsible for waste management, and a pervasive attitude of indifference regarding waste disposal.
Los Baños has made significant strides in solid waste management, addressing both technical and social challenges (Atienza, 2008) The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) is spearheading the Los Baños Ten-Year Solid Waste Management Plan for 2014-2023, which aims to compost 50% of biodegradable waste, recycle non-biodegradable materials, and properly dispose of the remaining waste at the sanitary landfill, also known as the ecowaste processing center.
MENRO has developed a strategy to minimize waste consumption and mitigate environmental threats, as illustrated in Figure 4 Solid waste generators, including households and businesses, are required to segregate their waste for proper disposal by garbage collectors In 2014, households generated approximately 53.3 tons of waste daily (MENRO, 2012) Biodegradable waste is collected for vermicomposting, utilizing various worm species to create a nutrient-rich compost (Misra, Roy & Hiraoka, 2003) Recyclable materials are gathered by waste pickers or junkshops for profit, while special and residual wastes are collected and directed to sanitary landfills for treatment.
Figure 2 Solid Waste Cycle in Los Baủos (MENRO, 2012)
In addition to what was mentioned above, the government assigned a particular date and time for a specific type of solid wastes which:
Biodegradable Wastes: Mondays to Fridays (8:00 pm to 9:00 pm) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
Non-Biodegradable Wastes: Saturdays (8:00 pm to 9:00 pm)
Residual Wastes: Saturdays (8:00 pm to 9:00 pm)
Special Wastes: By arrangement with the MENRO
To align with the goals of the Los Baños Ten-Year Solid Waste Management Plan 2014-2023, the Los Baños government implemented various municipal ordinances and memorandum orders focused on effective solid waste management.
Municipal Ordinance 92-98 as amended by M.O 2001-08 “Kautusan
Hinggil sa Pangangalaga ng Basura at ang mga Karampatang Pataw Ukol Dito” (creation of regulations together with the appropriate violations to be implemented in accordance to solid waste management)
Municipal Ordinance 2001-07 Creation of Task Force Kalinisan (TFK)
Municipal Ordinance 2001-16 “No Smoking in Public Utility Vehicles”
Municipal Ordinance 2004-338 Creation of Solid Waste Management Board
Municipal Ordinance 2004-363 Declaring 1st Saturday of September, every year as “Pista ng Kapaligiran” (celebration of the importance of the environment) in Los Baủos
Municipal Ordinance 2008-752 in Los Baños prohibits the use of plastic bags for dry goods and regulates their use for wet goods, while also banning Styrofoam This ordinance aims to promote environmental sustainability within the municipality and outlines penalties for non-compliance.
Memorandum Order No CPP-04-203 addresses the initiation of administrative cases against barangay officials who fail to comply with and implement Republic Act 9003 and Municipal Ordinance No 2001-08 This order emphasizes the importance of adherence to environmental laws and local regulations, aiming to ensure that barangay officials fulfill their responsibilities in promoting waste management and sustainability within their communities.
METHODS AND DESIGN
Types of Data and Method of Data Collection
Primary data was collected through personal interviews with representatives from selected households in five coastal barangays of Los Baños A mixed questionnaire featuring both closed and open-ended questions was utilized, primarily employing a parametric scale to assess the study’s objectives The questions were adapted from Rustia's 2001 research.
Secondary data for this study was sourced from various academic resources, including dissertations, journals, articles, abstracts, reports, and books from the School of Environmental Science and Management Library Additionally, the list of households utilized in the research was obtained from the Municipality of Los Baños office.
Selection of the Study Area
The study took place in Los Baños, a Local Government Unit in Laguna, covering an area of approximately 5,560 hectares Geographically positioned at 14° 11’ North latitude and 121° 15’ East longitude, Los Baños is bordered by Laguna Lake to the north and Sto Tomas.
Batangas on the South, Bay, Laguna on the East and Calamba City on the West
The area is divided into 14 barangays: Anos, Bagong Silang, Batong Malake, Bambang, Bayog, Baybayin (formerly Poblacion), Lalakay, Maahas, Mayondon, Malinta, San Antonio, Tadlac, Tuntungin-Putho, and Timugan.
(Figure 3) with a total population of 112, 493 and a total household number of 26,847 in year 2015
Los Baños is internationally recognized for its esteemed research and academic institutions, including the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), and Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) The town also offers a refreshing environment that attracts both tourists and locals, providing opportunities for activities such as hiking and enjoying hot springs.
By the said factors above, the municipality of Los Baủos was then declared as
A Special University Zone in the Letter of Instruction No 883 of President
On June 15, 1979, Ferdinand E Marcos recognized the municipality's significance, and on March 17, 1982, it was designated as an Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences Community through Executive Order No 784 Section 23 Further solidifying its status, Los Baños was proclaimed the Special Science and Nature City of the Philippines on August 7, 2000, via Presidential Proclamation No 349, highlighting its pivotal role in advancing science and technology for agricultural development and environmental preservation.
In compliance with the Continuing Mandamus on Manila Bay issued by the Supreme Court, residents in the Laguna Lake Basin are required to manage their waste effectively to prevent pollution and enhance the surrounding coastal areas of Manila Bay Consequently, a study was conducted focusing on five coastal barangays of Los.
Baủos, which were Tadlac, Baybayin (formerly known as Poblacion), Malinta, Mayondon and Bayog, as shown in Figure 3
Figure 3 Base Map of Los Baủos, Laguna, Philippines
Source: Comprehensive Land-Use Plan of Los Baủos (CLUP), n.a.
Selection of Respondents
To accurately represent the entire household, respondents were selected as either the head of the family or the designated member responsible for solid waste disposal in the absence of the head.
Using the simple random sampling method, respondents were selected randomly through a draw from a numbered list of households The sample size for each barangay was then calculated using specific formulas.
(eq 1) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
Z = standard variate p = perceived value of interest of the proportion of interest q = 1-p e = acceptable error (margin of error) and
Where: n i = sample size of group i
N = size of population n = sample size
A total of 148 households were surveyed to assess their socio-economic profiles, the types of waste they generate, and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste management.
Table 1 Population, Household Number and Sample Size of the Coastal
Barangays of Los Baủos, Philippines, 2017
Source: LB Municipal Planning and Development (LBMPD), 2016
Method of Analysis and Data Presentation
Descriptive analysis was employed to gather essential data regarding socio-economic characteristics, types of household solid waste generated, and households' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to solid waste management For quantitative data, mean values and ranges were calculated, while qualitative data were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages.
Likert – scale was used in measuring the level of knowledge & attitude of the respondents Having that,
Knowledge used the scale of:
3 – Don’t Know/ No Idea luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
The scale used in the survey categorized respondents' knowledge levels based on their answers, with a weighted mean calculated accordingly A score between 5 and 4.1 indicates that respondents are Highly Knowledgeable (A), while scores from 4 to 3.1 reflect a Knowledgeable (B) status Scores ranging from 3 to 2.1 suggest respondents have No Idea (C), and those between 2 and 1.1 are considered Somewhat Knowledgeable (D) Lastly, scores from 1 to 0.1 indicate that respondents are Not Knowledgeable (E).
Attitude used the scale of:
To assess respondents' attitudes, a reversed scale was employed, assigning a value of 5 to "strongly disagree" and 1 to "strongly agree," as all statements were negative Similarly, the respondents' knowledge was evaluated using a weighted mean, where scores ranging from 5 to 3.1 indicated a positive attitude, 3 to 2.1 represented a neutral stance, and scores from 2 to 0.1 reflected a negative attitude.
Relatively, average weighted mean was computed using the following formula: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
= sum of multiplied weights and value = weights (frequency)
Correlation analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between respondents' knowledge and attitude and their practices, as well as the influence of income and educational attainment on their levels of knowledge, attitude, and practices.
The following formula was used to compute for the correlation coefficient:
Where: s xy = sample covariance s x = sample standard deviation of variable x luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com s y = sample standard deviation of variable y
The sample correlation coefficient ranges from -1 to +1, where values close to zero suggest a negligible relationship between variables A positive correlation, indicated by values nearing +1, means that as variable A increases, variable B also increases Conversely, values close to -1 indicate a negative correlation, where an increase in variable A results in a decrease in variable B Specifically, correlation values are categorized as follows: ±0.01 to ±0.19 indicates a very weak relationship, ±0.20 to ±0.39 indicates a weak relationship, ±0.40 to ±0.59 indicates a moderate relationship, ±0.60 to ±0.79 indicates a strong relationship, and ±0.80 to ±1.0 indicates a very strong relationship.
Source: http://www.geoib.com/spearmans-rank.html luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
Thus, data analysis was made possible using statistical software, STATA, and data presentation was made using Microsoft Excel 2010.
Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework for this study, illustrated in Figure 5, integrates ideologies from various studies reviewed in the related literature It encompasses households' socio-economic characteristics, the types of solid waste generated, and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding solid waste management.
The socio-economic characteristics of households, including age, gender, household size, civil status, educational attainment, source of income, and estimated monthly income, were analyzed based on the framework established by Kumar and Nandini (2013) These variables were essential in examining their correlation with respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding solid waste management Notably, household size influences the volume of waste generated, while the source of income determines the types of waste produced, with higher-income households typically contributing to greater waste generation (Remy, 2012).
The article discusses the types and nature of solid wastes generated in households within selected barangays of Los Baños, focusing on their content and hazard potential It emphasizes the importance of identifying these waste types to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of residents regarding waste management Proper disposal methods for various solid waste types are crucial to mitigating environmental pollution.
The study examines the knowledge and attitudes of households in Los Baños regarding solid waste management programs in their municipality and barangays Knowledge was assessed through a scale ranging from "always true" to "never true," while attitudes were measured using a five-point agreement scale from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree." Respondents answered ten statements to evaluate how their knowledge and attitudes influence their waste management practices.
Solid waste management practices among households emphasize key actions such as the 3Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle—along with segregation, composting, and burning These practices are categorized into positive and negative approaches to solid waste disposal.
The framework indicates that socio-economic factors influence the amount of solid waste generated by households It will assess households' knowledge and attitudes towards solid waste management (SWM) and evaluate their practices in this area Additionally, these socio-economic characteristics may impact households' understanding and perspectives on SWM, potentially affecting their waste management practices.
Figure 5 Conceptual Framework for the Assessment of the Household’s Knowledge, Attitude and Practices in Solid Waste Management of the Selected Coastal Barangays in Los Baủos
Segregation (Biodegradable, Non-Biodegradable, etc.)
Knowledge Attitude luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Results
The socio-economic profile of the respondents was analyzed based on key factors such as gender, age, civil status, household size, educational attainment, income sources, and estimated monthly income, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the family's economic standing and overall societal position.
The study revealed that 54.05% of respondents were male, while 45.95% were female Notably, female participants demonstrated greater knowledge regarding proper waste management, scoring an average of 4.30, and exhibited a higher percentage of positive practices at 89.77% Conversely, male respondents displayed a more positive attitude towards waste management, with an average score of 4.2.
The average age of respondents was 47, with the majority (28.38%) falling between 41 to 50 years old, followed by 25.00% under 30, 22.97% aged 31 to 40, 15.54% between 51 to 60, 5.41% aged 61 to 70, and 2.70% over 71 This demographic represents a balanced mix of young and older individuals involved in household waste management Notably, respondents aged 51 and above demonstrated greater knowledge (4.34), more positive attitudes (4.13), and a higher percentage of positive practices in solid waste management (84.94%) compared to those aged 50 and below.
Table 2 shows that most of the respondents were married (70.27%; 104 out of
Among the 148 respondents, single individuals comprised 16.22% (24 respondents), followed by widowed respondents at 9.46% (14 respondents), and divorced individuals at 4.05% (6 respondents) Table 3 indicates that widowed respondents demonstrated the highest knowledge in solid waste management (mean score of 4.42) and a significant percentage of positive practices (90.23%) In contrast, married respondents exhibited a more positive attitude (mean score of 4.15) compared to the other groups.
The study suggests that larger households tend to generate more waste, with the majority of households comprising 5 to 7 individuals (44.59%; 66 out of 148), followed by those with 3 to 4 members (30.41%; 45 out of 148).
148), then 1 to 2 people (13.51%; 20 out of 148), next were 8 to 10 people (7.43%; 11 out of 148), and least were households with more than 10 people (4.05%; 6 out of
Households consisting of 1 to 4 individuals demonstrate a greater understanding of solid waste management, scoring an impressive 4.33 in knowledge and achieving an 86.50% rate in positive practices Conversely, larger households with 5 or more members exhibit a more favorable attitude towards solid waste management, reflected in a score of 4.10.
The study posited that a higher degree correlates with greater knowledge According to Table 2, the majority of respondents were high school graduates, comprising 36.49% (54 out of 148), while college graduates represented 27.03% (40 out of 148).
Among the respondents, elementary graduates and college undergraduates comprised 10.81% (16 out of 148), while those who completed vocational courses or higher degrees, such as a master's degree, represented 4.73% (7 out of 148) The smallest group was elementary undergraduates at 2.03% (3 out of 148) Individuals with higher degrees demonstrated significantly greater knowledge (mean score of 4.45) and exhibited a 100% rate of positive practices in solid waste management Additionally, respondents with vocational training showed a notably positive attitude, scoring an average of 4.54.
Household solid waste types vary based on income sources; for instance, households running small businesses, such as sari-sari stores, typically generate more non-biodegradable waste like plastics and cardboards In contrast, households involved in fishing produce both liquid and solid waste, including fish heads, bones, and oils Meanwhile, pensioners generally contribute to typical household waste.
Table 2 reveals that a majority of respondents, 64.19% (95 out of 148), are employed, while 12.84% (19 out of 148) are business owners, operating small enterprises such as grocery stores, pisonet, small restaurants (pares), tricycle rentals, food vending, and buy-and-sell activities Additionally, a segment of respondents falls under the category of "Others," indicating reliance on jueteng.
In the Philippines, an illegal betting game centered around specific numbers is prevalent, with financial support coming from remittances sent from abroad and allowances provided by their children, accounting for 10.14% of cases (15 out of 148) Additionally, fishers and fishery owners represent 9.46% of those involved, totaling 14 out of 148 participants.
148) Lastly, were pensioners or retirement allowance dependent (3.38%; 5 out of
Table 3 indicates that business owners exhibit greater knowledge (4.46) and a higher percentage of positive practices (89.11%) regarding solid waste management In contrast, respondents relying on jueteng, remittances, and allowances from their children demonstrate a slightly lower but still notable positivity in attitude (4.18).
The average monthly income of the respondents was Php 8,425, with a significant portion (41.89%) earning between Php 5,000 and Php 10,000, while 33.78% reported incomes below Php 5,000.
148), followed by income ranging from Php 10,001 to Php 15,000 (14.19%; 21 out of
The study revealed that a significant majority of respondents, approximately 89.86% (133 out of 148), earn Php 15,000 or less, which largely explains why many did not pursue higher education Additionally, the respondents typically belong to households consisting of five members.
7 people On the other hand, least of the respondents generates an income of Php 15,001 and above (10.14%; 15 out of 148), respectively
Respondents with a monthly income of Php 25,000 and above demonstrated significantly greater knowledge (4.75), a more positive attitude (4.35), and a higher percentage of positive practices regarding solid waste management compared to those earning Php 24,999 and below.
Table 2 Frequency and percentage distribution of the socio-economic characteristics of the 148 respondents in Los Baủos, Philippines, 2017
*x 8,425 Source of basic data: Survey Data, 2017
*x - mean luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
Table 3 Socio-economic characteristics in relation to the 148 respondents’ knowledge, attitude and practices in coastal barangays of Los Baủos, Philippines, 2017
Source of basic data: Survey Data, 2017
*F – total no of practices considered positive/negative in all types of wastes luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com
4.1.2 Household Solid Wastes Produced in 148 Households in Los Baủos
This section presents the different types of household solid wastes together with its estimated quantity
Types of Solid Wastes Produced and Estimated amount of the produced Solid Wastes (kg/week)
Discussion
This study identifies key socio-economic characteristics of households, including gender, age, civil status, household size, educational attainment, income sources, and estimated monthly income It also examines the types and nature of solid waste produced, as well as the households' knowledge and attitudes towards solid waste management Furthermore, the research highlights both positive and negative waste disposal practices, and explores the interrelationships between knowledge, attitude, and positive practices, alongside their connections to income and educational attainment.
The socio-economic characteristics of households were analyzed to understand their economic and social standing Among the 148 respondents, a majority were male (54.05%), with ages ranging from 41 to 50 years and an average age of 47 Additionally, 70.27% of the respondents were married, and most households comprised 5 to 7 members, particularly in the Bayog and Mayondon areas Educationally, 36.49% of respondents were high school graduates, while 27.03% held college degrees Employment data revealed that 62.84% were employed, earning between Php 5,000 and Php 10,000, with an average income of Php 8,425.
The analysis of respondents' socio-economic characteristics revealed significant differences in their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to solid waste management As indicated in Table 3, those with the highest levels of knowledge exhibited a greater percentage of positive practices compared to their attitudes This suggests that knowledge plays a more crucial role than attitude in influencing respondents' positive practices regarding solid waste management.
Households generate significant amounts of waste annually, with food waste leading at approximately 613.44 kg per year, followed by paper and cardboard at around 460.8 kg Additionally, fruit and vegetable peels contribute about 444.48 kg, while plastics account for approximately 418.08 kg Lastly, leaves and grasses add around 351.36 kg to the total household waste.
The respondents demonstrated a strong understanding of solid waste management, reflected by an average weighted mean score of 4.36, along with a positive attitude indicated by a score of 4.12.
The study revealed that 84.46% of respondents engage in proper solid waste disposal practices, including the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), segregation, composting, feeding animals, and selling waste However, there remains a lack of clarity among some respondents regarding the definitions of 3R and composting Despite demonstrating a strong understanding and positive attitude towards solid waste management, 15.54% of participants still resort to improper disposal methods, such as dumping waste in water systems, burning, burying, and relying on waste collectors This highlights a gap in knowledge about appropriate disposal practices for different types of solid waste and the distinctions between recycling and reusing.
The Spearman correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations among several variables in solid waste management (SWM), including knowledge and attitude, knowledge and positive practices, educational attainment and knowledge, and educational attainment and positive practices, all with p-values less than 0.05 This indicates that higher knowledge levels enhance attitudes and positive practices, while greater educational attainment improves knowledge and practices in SWM However, while income showed positive correlations with knowledge, positive practices, and educational attainment, these relationships lacked statistical significance, indicating insufficient evidence to establish a clear effect of income on knowledge and practices in SWM.
The study revealed a significant negative correlation between the respondents' income levels and their attitudes, indicating that a higher income does not necessarily equate to a more positive attitude This finding, statistically significant at a p-value of less than 0.05, suggests that individuals with higher salaries do not automatically possess a better attitude.