Household solid waste management in San José Bachillero parish, Ecuador: knowledge, practices, and priority gaps
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36097/rgcs.v3i2.3236Keywords:
waste management, household solid waste, environmental health, rural communities, environmental educationAbstract
Household solid waste management is an environmental issue linked to health and quality of life in rural communities. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, practices, and access to household solid waste collection services in the community of San José de Bachillero in order to identify priority gaps. An observational, quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2024 using a structured survey administered to 303 adults (one participant per household). The analysis covered sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of regulations and basic concepts, and practices regarding waste separation, reduction, and final disposal. Self-reported knowledge was predominantly rated as "fair" (41.3%); 62.4% of respondents reported separating waste (primarily plastics); 68.6% indicated weekly collection, while 14.5% lacked service entirely. Practices such as burning and burying waste were also identified, highlighting gaps in environmental education and local waste management.
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The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ariana L. Álvarez, Yaniset Rodríguez, Josselyn J. Iriarte
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