Community participation in municipal solid waste management: Special reference to Gampaha municipality

Effective management of municipal solid waste is a pressing issue for numerous developing countries, including Sri Lanka. Despite efforts to implement eco-friendly waste disposal methods, many nations struggle with open landfills and unregulated dumping, causing detrimental effects on both public health and the environment. This study delves into the impact of community participation on solid waste management, with Sri Lanka serving as a case study. Urbanization and shifting consumption patterns exacerbate the challenges surrounding solid waste management. In Sri Lanka's urban areas, the absence of adequate waste management mechanisms emphasizes the necessity for active community involvement. Identifying the types and sources of solid waste is crucial for devising efficient waste management strategies. Concepts like the 3R approach (reduce, reuse, recycle) and composting play pivotal roles in sustainable waste management. Employing logistic regression analysis, the study assesses how community participation influences solid waste management. Results indicate that community involvement positively affects waste reduction, recycling, and composting efforts. However, while a considerable portion of the community actively engages in waste reduction, participation in waste reuse and recycling is limited. This highlights the significance of promoting the 3R concept and enhancing community involvement in waste management endeavors. Overall, the study underscores the instrumental role of community participation in achieving sustainable municipal solid waste management. Recommendations include prioritizing the 3R approach, investing in composting initiatives, and fostering greater community engagement in waste management practices. By adopting these strategies, municipalities can effectively address solid waste challenges while promoting environmental sustainability and public health.