Waste segregation in household sector in Sri Lanka: An empirical analysis of Ambalangoda divisional secretariat division

Abstract

Waste is a global issue that needs to be paid attention to in order to create a sustainable world. Waste segregation is an integral part of waste management. There is no proper mechanism for household waste segregation and management in most areas in Sri Lanka. Households generate every type of waste in different amounts and rarely separate in a proper way. Hence, it is important to investigate why people do not segregate waste that is generated in their houses. The main objectives of this study are determining the factors that affect waste segregation, identifying people‘s awareness about waste segregation, and identifying factors that contribute to people‘s willingness to segregate waste. Data were collected from 204 households in Ambalangoda divisional secretariat division using systematic random sampling method which includes both waste collection and non-collection areas by the local Government Authority. Factor Analysis and Logit model were carried out to analyze the data. Out of the total sample, 32.9 per cent of households segregate waste before disposal while 67.1 per cent of households do not. Lack of awareness, negative attitudes, difficulties of disposal, lack of personal norms and habits are the main reasons for improper waste disposal. However, the results indicated that out of total households that do not segregate waste, 67.6 per cent of households are willing to segregate waste if the necessary facilities are provided. Survey data indicated that people‘s awareness about waste segregation is low. Factors that affect waste segregation such as awareness factor, difficulties of disposal factor, positive attitudes factor and practices factor were identified from the factor analysis. According to the logit model, age, gender, education level, income, attitudes, awareness, family size, land size, practice factors, and disposable difficulties are the most significant factors that affect waste segregation. Hence, it is essential to increase peoples‘ awareness, change attitudes, and provide necessary initial facilities to increase waste segregation.