Exploring Community Attitudes and Perceptions Towards Solid Waste Management: A Case Study of Kerala, India

The present study in Kerala aimed to investigate the perceptions and behaviours of 430 respondents towards household waste generation and management. The survey outcomes were used to determine the personal attributes, awareness and perceptions of the people towards solid waste management. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to identify the possible correlation between the personal attributes of respondents and their awareness and perceptions. The results showed that most participants fell within the age range of 20– 60; majority of them were graduates having an income above Rs 40,000. Food waste was found to be the predominant type of waste generated, about 65%. Over 50% of the respondents considered waste as a resource. The study also revealed that education plays a crucial role in addressing waste management problems. Almost 85% of the respondents supported imposing penalties for open dumping of waste and 63% supported composting of domestic waste. Respondents showed a growing willingness to act against improper waste management and disposal. Thus, the study brings out the importance of education and awareness programmes in shaping individuals’ perspectives towards waste management and reducing waste generation as well as highlights the need for an all-inclusive strategy for effective solid waste management.