Assessing the socio-economic factors affecting household waste generation and recycling behavior in Chennai: A survey-based study

Ashutosh Deshpande 1, *, Vasanth Ramanathan 2 and Karthigaiselvan Babu 2

1 Environmental Engineering Dept, Texas A&M University, USA, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute, Mumbai, India.
2 Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute, Mumbai, India.'
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 11(02), 750–758.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.11.2.0487
Publication history: 
Received on 12 February 2024; revised on 19 March 2024; accepted on 22 March 2024
 
Abstract: 
This research paper investigates the socio-economic factors influencing household waste generation and recycling behavior in Chennai, India. The rapid urbanization and economic growth in Chennai have led to increased waste management challenges, making it imperative to understand the specific dynamics at play. The primary objectives of this study are to identify the key socio-economic factors affecting waste generation and recycling and to assess their implications for waste management policies.
To achieve these objectives, a cross-sectional survey-based research design was employed. Data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 500 households, encompassing various income levels, education backgrounds, and demographics. Statistical analysis, including multiple regression and logistic regression, was used to analyze the data.
The key findings of this study indicate that monthly income significantly influences waste generation, with lower-income households producing more waste on average. Education level emerged as a predictor of recycling behavior, with higher-educated households exhibiting higher recycling rates. Additionally, the joint influence of income, education, age group, and gender on waste-related behaviors underscores the complex nature of socio-economic dynamics in waste management.
These findings have significant implications for policy development. Tailored interventions are necessary to address income disparities and promote recycling awareness among different socio-economic groups. Furthermore, the study highlights the environmental and health impacts of socio-economic disparities in waste management, emphasizing the need for inclusive and sustainable waste practices.
 
Keywords: 
Socio-economic factors; Household waste generation; Recycling behavior; Waste management; Chennai; Urbanization
 
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