Knowledge, attitude and behavior of solid waste sorting of undergraduate students, Sisaket Rajabhat University

Abstract

This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed (1) to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to solid waste separation among undergraduate students at Sisaket Rajabhat University, and (2) to investigate the relationships between knowledge, attitudes, and solid waste sorting behaviors. A total of 122 undergraduate students were selected as the sample. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of three sections: personal information, knowledge of solid waste separation, and attitudes and behaviors toward solid waste sorting. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s correlation coefficient.

            The results showed that the participants’ knowledge of solid waste separation was at a moderate level, with an overall score of 44.26% (mean=11.00 ± 4.43). Most respondents correctly identified that using food waste for composting is a hygienic method of solid waste disposal (77.87%). However, limited knowledge was observed regarding the proper disposal of cosmetic products (24.59% correct responses) and the symbol for infectious waste (21.31% correct responses). Attitudes toward solid waste separation were at a good level, with an overall score of 72.95% (mean=29.48 ± 5.74). Most participants agreed that maintaining cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility (81.14%) and that waste separation is a shared responsibility of all individuals (70.49%).

            Regarding solid waste sorting behaviors, the results indicated a moderate level, with an overall score of 54.92% (mean=38.95 ± 7.12). Commonly practiced behaviors included purchasing reusable products to reduce waste (50.00%) and refusing plastic bags when buying small items (55.74%). Correlation analysis revealed that knowledge was positively correlated with attitudes (rₛ=0.48, p<0.001) and with solid waste sorting behaviors (rₛ=0.46, p<0.001), both at a moderate level.

            In conclusion, the findings indicated that undergraduate students possessed moderate knowledge and good attitudes toward solid waste separation, reflecting an awareness of the importance of waste management and environmental protection. However, waste sorting behaviors remained at a moderate level, which may be attributed to insufficient motivation to translate knowledge and attitudes into practice. Therefore, waste separation promotion programs should emphasize strengthening appropriate practices by providing continuous motivation and support. This may include enhancing knowledge in areas where gaps remain and organizing participatory activities that encourage daily waste sorting, which could lead to more effective and sustainable waste management behaviors in the future.