Assessing Knowledge and Behaviors in Solid Waste Management: Building Blocks for Sustainable Programs

Students' awareness and practices regarding solid waste management play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. This study, "Assessing Students' Awareness on Solid Waste Management: Basis for a Program Proposal," examines the level of awareness and actual waste management practices among senior high school students at Partida National High School. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 303 respondents to determine their knowledge and application of key waste management principles, including recycling, reusing, reducing, recovering, and repairing. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between awareness and practices, indicating that students with higher awareness levels are more likely to engage in proper waste management. However, gaps in knowledge and challenges in implementation such as lack of resources, facilities, and institutional support hinder effective practice. Based on these findings, this study proposes a program that aims to bridge the gap between awareness and action through education, school initiatives, and community involvement. By enhancing students' knowledge and providing them with the necessary tools and support, the program seeks to cultivate a culture of responsible solid waste management in the school and beyond.