Factors associated with household waste separation behavior at Ban Tonode Subdistrict Municipality, Khirimat District, Sukhothai Province

Abstract

     The research conducted in this study is a cross-sectional descriptive study aimed at investigating the factors associated with waste separation behaviors in households and the association between waste separation behaviors, and socio-demographic characteristics in the community area of Ban Tonode Subdistrict Municipality, Khirimat District, Sukhothai Province. The sample group consists of households registered within the administrative area of Ban Tonode Subdistrict Municipality, Khirimat District, Sukhothai Province, totaling 202 households. Data were collected through questionnaires, and statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, means, standard deviations, and Pearson correlation coefficients.
     The research findings revealed that the majority of the sample group had a high level of knowledge about household waste separation, with 72.3% having a positive attitude toward waste separation behaviors at a moderate level, which was observed at 58.4%. Enabling factors were associated with waste separation behaviors, were at a high level of 61.4%. Reinforcement factors affecting household waste separation behavior were at a moderate level of 45.1%. Household waste separation behaviors were also moderate, at 66.3%. The association between waste separation behaviors showed statistically significant results at the 0.05 level. These results included a positive attitude toward household waste separation (r = 0.237, p-value = 0.001), enabling factors (r = 0.472, p-value < 0.001), and reinforcement factors (r = 0.596, p-value < 0.001). The study's findings can be used to establish policies or guidelines for waste separation and management at the source, and to enhance knowledge, understanding, awareness, and positive attitudes among community members to promote good waste separation behaviors.