Task Brief:
Write a 6000 words Literature Review(LR) that would going to be publish in Q1/Q2 high impacting journals for the requirement of PhD.
SOLUTION
A systematic Literature review of social and cultural factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices on waste management in Dhaka, Bangladesh
1 Abstract
The study investigates the various factors affecting Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) in waste management activities, with a specific focus on Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It underscores the critical interplay between pro-environmental beliefs and behaviours, emphasizing the role of public acceptance and addressing concerns related to unfair treatment, and public health issues, often encapsulated in the “Not in My Back Yard” (NIMBY) syndrome. The practical challenges in waste disposal practices in Dhaka are highlighted, including inappropriate methods such as backyard disposal, burning, and roadside dumping, driven by factors like a lack of sorting experience and limited awareness about the 3R principles. To address these challenges, the study recommends advocacy for proper solid waste management practices, emphasizing the need for local government initiatives such as constructing adequate landfills, providing shared containers, and implementing door-to-door waste collection services. The research globally explores the disparity between knowledge and practical implementation in waste management behaviours, with a specific focus on the effectiveness of a training intervention in Dhaka. The study acknowledges the significance of women in household waste management and the positive impact of interventions like waste management workshops. Additionally, the research delves into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to MSW source separation, emphasizing the challenges arising from inadequate awareness and the positive influence of environmental protection motivations. The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is underscored in bridging communication gaps between households and local authorities. The study concludes by advocating for a comprehensive approach, incorporating proper waste disposal practices, training interventions, public awareness enhancement, and recognizing the pivotal role of women, environmental motivations, and collaborative efforts with NGOs in developing effective and sustainable waste management programs in Dhaka. This approach is seen as crucial not only for environmental conservation but also for the overall well-being of the local population.
Keywords: Waste management, Municipal solid waste (MSW), knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), circular economy.
2 Introduction
Solid waste management poses a significant challenge in developing nations, requiring a huge portion of municipal budgets for handling and designated land for disposal (Habib et al., 2021). Projections indicate a staggering 73% increase in solid waste generation, reaching 3.88 billion tonnes by 2050, primarily driven by rapid urbanization and a growing urban population (The World Bank, 2022). Households emerge as a prominent source of solid waste, contributing organic and inorganic materials such as food, textiles, glass, paper, metal, rubber, furniture, clothing, and leather,plastic, e-waste, (Nanda & Berruti, 2021). Municipal solid waste (MSW) becomes a critical environmental concern in swiftly urbanizing cities of developing nations, with over 90% of waste often ending up in uncontrolled dumps or being burned outdoors, posing risks to human health (The World Bank, 2022; Xu et al., 2015). Rapid population and economic growth exacerbate MSW management challenges in municipalities across countries like China, India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Bangladesh (Li & Wang, 2021). The solid waste crisis extends beyond environmental issues to become a social problem. While often approached with an engineering and technical focus, addressing the crisis requires insights from sociology and environmental sociology. Factors like attitude, consumption patterns, lifestyle, notions of purity, and gender relations, extensively studied in sociology, play crucial roles from waste generation to sustainable waste management. Anthropologists and sociologists emphasize understanding the causes and patterns of waste generation for effective solutions.
As highlighted by (Sujauddin et al., 2008), the generation of waste is intricately linked to a multitude of socioeconomic factors, including family size, education level, monthly income, residential location, and community status. These elements collectively emphasize the significant role households play in the process of waste generation. Within the domain of waste management, the social dimension proves inseparable from the entire system. Achieving effective solid waste management hinges on public knowledge, active participation, and cooperation, forming indispensable components of the social aspect. Understanding and addressing the interconnectedness of these socioeconomic factors is vital for devising tailored waste management strategies that resonate with the specific dynamics of communities. As households contribute substantially to waste creation, their engagement becomes pivotal in implementing sustainable waste management practices. Emphasizing public awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility within communities are essential steps toward achieving comprehensive and effective waste management systems. In this context, acknowledging and addressing the social intricacies surrounding waste generation and management is imperative for the success and sustainability of waste reduction and disposal initiatives (Glawe et al., 2005).
The relationship between family size and income levels with waste production is apparent, and researchers have introduced the concepts of “group living” and “common consumption,” where households operate as a unit and often share most food products (Loan et al., 2023). Additionally, a higher level of education and awareness within a family about the adverse impacts of inadequate solid waste management tends to foster a greater appreciation for effective waste management practices (Kayode & Omole, 2011). However, municipalities, facing financial constraints, encounter challenges in managing solid waste, as the substantial financial investment required for service delivery poses a significant obstacle (Sharholy et al., 2008). The delay in providing proper waste management services can be attributed to factors such as insufficient financial support, limited resources, consumers’ reluctance to pay for services, and the improper application of economic mechanisms. Addressing these financial and economic hurdles is crucial for municipalities to enhance their waste management services and meet the growing demands of effective and sustainable waste disposal (Abir et al., 2023; Sujauddin et al., 2008).
Understanding how individuals perceive, think about, and engage in Solid Waste Management (SWM) is crucial for addressing environmental challenges (Karmakar et al., 2023). The determinants of communities’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) in SWM have been a subject of investigation, considering various socio-economic factors. Gender, education, and income were identified as significant influencers (Ma & Hipel, 2016). This paper focuses on analyzing the social and cultural dimensions of solid waste generation and its impact on management. By utilizing secondary data and field data from Dhaka, Bangladesh, the study explores the relationships between factors like social class, cultural values, perceptions of pollution, consumption patterns, and solid waste generation and management. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, offering guidance on improving households’ KAP and SWM practices.
3 Methodology
To gain insights into the research landscape concerning the social aspects of MSW management, an examination of literature published in relevant areas was conducted. This process involved two primary steps: reviewing documents and selecting pertinent research articles that underwent critical appraisal.
3.1 Description of the study area
Dhaka, with a population exceeding 10.2 million, stands as the rapidly urbanizing mega-city in South Asia. The city is now divided into two distinct entities: Dhaka North City Corporation and Dhaka South City Corporation, as per the survey of Bangladesh. Dhaka experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 18 °C to 29 °C. The monsoon season witnesses the majority of the city’s precipitation, amounting to 1854 mm. City corporation statistics indicate that Dhaka’s north and south cities collectively produce over seven thousand tons of solid waste each day, sourced from households and deposited at the two landfills (Abir et al., 2023).
3.2 Literature selection criteria
This review exclusively focuses on studies investigating social and cultural factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices in waste management. The systematic literature review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 method for its comprehensive, evidence-based, and standardized approach (Page et al., 2021). The process includes detailing information sources, the search method, selection criteria, and data extraction and analysis methods. Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Wiley Online Library (WOL) were systematically searched to identify relevant articles based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria (Table 1). The aim is to ensure the selection of papers most pertinent to this study while maintaining academic rigour and integrity.
Table 1 Criteria used for selection of studies
| Inclusion Criteria | Exclusion Criteria |
| IC1: Journal articles, book and book chapter | EX1: Conference papers, proceedings of congresses, and other nonpeer-reviewed publications |
| IC2: The article is written in English | EX2: The article is not written in English |
| IC3: The article is peer-reviewed | EX3: The article is not peer-reviewed |
| IC4: The study considered the influence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on waste management. | EX4: The study does not consider the influence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on waste management. |
4 Result and Discussion
With a population exceeding 160 million, Bangladesh faces urban challenges, where 29.4% reside. Urban areas generate 25,000 tons of solid waste daily, averaging 0.465 kilograms per person(Ahmed et al., 2006). The sources include residential areas, businesses, industries, and more. Unfortunately, these wastes often accumulate in various locations, such as road corner dustbins, secondary disposal points, and open spaces (Abir et al., 2023).
4.1 Conceptual framework
The Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) model stands out as a pivotal framework for assessing the effectiveness of interventions, offering valuable insights into potential success-failure gaps and guiding resource allocation. Diverse studies, such as those on highland residents’ engagement in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management in northern Thailand and households’ KAP regarding Solid Waste Management (SWM) in Cambodia, underscore the crucial role of KAP in shaping corrective actions and reducing the likelihood of intervention failure. Environmental psychologists commonly employ the KAP model to explore people’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning specific topics, placing a particular emphasis on environmental behaviours. This model provides a comprehensive lens to understand the intricate interplay between individual understanding, attitudes, and actions, making it an invaluable tool in designing and evaluating interventions across various contexts. (Ng, 2019).
The KAP model is particularly pertinent in the context of recycling in Hong Kong, offering valuable insights into residents’ awareness, beliefs, and actions related to waste recycling. Originally introduced in family planning during the 1950s, the KAP model has gained global popularity for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, ability to integrate both qualitative and quantitative data, cross-cultural comparability, and ease of interpretation. Environmental researchers have widely applied this model in surveys exploring various topics, such as climate change, sustainable development, environmental awareness, and waste management. Its versatility makes the KAP model a powerful tool for understanding and addressing complex social and environmental issues, including the promotion of sustainable behaviours like recycling in diverse cultural contexts like Hong Kong (Loan et al., 2023).
The KAP model proposes that an individual’s knowledge shapes their attitude, and together, knowledge and attitude dictate the degree of a particular behaviour. This model’s applicability extends to various environmental concerns, encompassing solid waste disposal, recycling, and atmospheric pollution. Illustrative studies conducted in the Philippines and Vietnam within the realm of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management underscore the critical role of KAP information. These studies reveal that leveraging knowledge, attitudes, and practices is instrumental in addressing discrepancies and fostering active social participation, thereby contributing to more effective waste management strategies (Loan et al., 2023). The interconnections between demographic and personal characteristics and Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) are thoroughly examined across diverse contexts, underscoring the necessity for customized strategies that consider the integrated dynamics of waste management. The KAP model, with its holistic perspective, emerges as a valuable tool for informing and shaping targeted intervention implementation strategies in the field of waste management. By recognizing the nuanced relationships between individual attributes and waste-related behaviours, the KAP model aids in the development of more effective and context-specific initiatives to enhance waste management practices.
4.2 Psychological factors and recycling behaviour
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) are pivotal elements in comprehending and shaping behaviours, especially in the realm of environmental concerns like waste management. Knowledge, defined as the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject, involves facts, information, and skills. Surprisingly, there is a scarcity of research investigating the association between environmental knowledge and attitude. While certain studies propose a positive correlation, the strength of this connection remains inconsistent. Conversely, the impact of knowledge on behaviour has been extensively studied, revealing that both specific and general environmental knowledge significantly contributes to the adoption of pro-environmental practices. This nuanced understanding emphasizes the multifaceted role of knowledge in influencing attitudes and behaviours related to waste management and underscores the importance of tailored strategies to enhance environmental awareness and practices (Ng, 2019).
Attitude, as per Eagly and Chaiken’s definition, encompasses effect, behavior, and cognition components, constituting the ABC model of attitude. In the context of waste management, environmental attitudes are pivotal in shaping behaviours like recycling, where emotional attachment, behavioural influence, and cognitive beliefs collectively influence individual actions. However, the predictive strength of attitude on behaviour can exhibit variability across studies and settings. While the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) model is widely employed, it has faced criticism for oversimplifying the intricate relationship between knowledge, attitude, and behavior. The environmental attitude-behaviour gap, or value-action gap, underscores the notion that changes in knowledge and attitude do not uniformly translate into behavioural changes, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of these dynamics in waste management interventions (Ma & Hipel, 2016).
The environmental attitude-behavior gap in recycling is influenced by several factors, including issues of inconvenience, long distances to recycling facilities, limited time or storage space, and personal constraints. Perceived inconvenience, a subjective perception, is intricately linked to attitude. Socioeconomic and demographic characteristics contribute to the complexity of this relationship. Variables like gender, age, education, and income are commonly studied, yet findings vary widely. For example, while some studies indicate that women may be more inclined to recycle, others report no gender-related association. Likewise, the inconsistent relationships between age, education, income, and recycling behavior across studies emphasize the intricate interplay between knowledge, attitude, behavior, and convenience. This diversity underscores the need for tailored waste management interventions that consider specific contexts and demographic characteristics (Babaei et al., 2015; Ma & Hipel, 2016; Yu et al., 2022).
4.3 Health effects/Vulnerability of waste management activities
Despite significant technological advancements and strengthened legislative frameworks in waste management, the public’s acceptance of new waste facilities remains low, accompanied by persistent concerns about adverse environmental and health effects. Health risks are intricately linked to various stages of waste handling, treatment, and disposal. Direct exposure occurs through activities such as recovery and recycling, occupational roles within the waste management industry, and contact with hazardous substances. The disposal of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), encompassing plastics, chemicals, and toxic substances, poses a considerable risk of environmental contamination. Microorganisms present during processing, storage, and utilization contribute to this risk, potentially affecting soil, water, air, biota, and products derived from MSW. The contamination of waste poses a specific and heightened threat to the health of exposed populations, particularly those with vulnerabilities. The adverse effects of such contamination can disproportionately impact individuals or communities that may already be susceptible due to various factors such as age, pre-existing health conditions, or socio-economic challenges. Therefore, addressing and mitigating the health risks associated with waste contamination becomes imperative, necessitating targeted interventions and policies to safeguard the well-being of these vulnerable populations.
In specific contexts, such as waste pickers in Dhaka, health risks are exacerbated due to inadequate protection during the retrieval of reusable materials from garbage bins, streets, and landfill sites. These individuals face daily exposure to diseases, yet their lack of access to health services is compounded by low income, rendering private hospitals or medical centres unaffordable. Societal perceptions of waste pickers as ‘dirty’ and homeless further discourage assistance from government-funded centres, creating a reluctance to seek help when needed (Malak et al., 2022). Informal collectors, recyclers, and individuals within informal waste sectors face health risks primarily stemming from occupational hazards. These risks include bites from insects and rats, cuts and bruises, skin diseases, respiratory and gastrointestinal tract problems, eye irritation, body aches, general weakness, and frequent fever (Parveen & Faisal, 2005). The challenges underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support systems addressing both occupational and socio-economic aspects of individuals engaged in informal waste sectors.
Indirect health effects linked to greenhouse gas emissions from waste disposal activities are also significant. Climate change, marked by rising temperatures and low-level ozone levels, poses risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Addressing waste disposal practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2, CH4, and N2O, are crucial steps to mitigate these indirect health impacts associated with climate change (Ma & Hipel, 2016). Urgent measures are necessary to protect vulnerable communities from the potential adverse health effects of climate change stemming from improper waste management practices.
4.4 Importance of Public Participation in Waste Management Activities
Waste generated by human activities poses significant health and environmental risks, with management influenced by factors such as real estate investment, neighbourhood committees’ involvement, and cost-based collection services. Obstacles emerge due to authorities’ limited understanding and the misconception that waste management is exclusively the duty of local governments. Cultural elements, like residents’ negative attitudes and insufficient trash separation, impede effective waste management. Differing perspectives on the value of recyclable waste exist, with some considering it of low worth and others deeming the effort to collect and repurpose not worthwhile. Businesspeople often delegate recyclable collection to housekeepers, contributing to diverse views on waste value (Abir et al., 2023).
4.4.1 Importance of Public Education
Public awareness is pivotal in disseminating information about Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management systems (Kiessling et al., 2017). Insufficient public awareness, termed an information barrier, is identified as a significant obstacle affecting the success of MSW management systems (Almasi et al., 2019; Babaei et al., 2015; Cando, 2022). Comprehensive public education is shaped by economic and societal factors, encompassing individual behaviors like reading, watching TV, and internet usage (Ma & Hipel, 2016). It is essential to implement specific and well-timed public education strategies, considering individuals’ beliefs and motivations. Unfortunately, public participation in waste management, especially recycling, remains low in developing countries like Dhaka (Afroz, 2011).
The widespread challenges of poverty and illiteracy in Bangladesh significantly contribute to a lack of public awareness regarding environmental concerns (Parveen & Faisal, 2005). A household awareness survey conducted in Dhaka revealed reluctance among different income groups to participate in recycling activities (Afroz, 2011). The city encounters difficulties in waste disposal due to an increasing population and horizontal expansion. City corporations struggle with financial support and low willingness to pay, leading to inadequate waste management policies. Urgent attention is required to enhance public awareness, address waste minimization, and identify factors contributing to waste generation (Afroz, 2011). Despite existing research on solid waste management in Bangladesh, no study has explored the impact of socio-economic factors on household waste generation and minimization (Afroz, 2011). This highlights the need for comprehensive studies that delve into the socio-economic aspects influencing household waste practices, allowing for more targeted and effective waste management interventions in the region.
4.4.2 Public-private partnership
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a collaborative model involving the transfer of control of MSW services from the public sector to the private sector. This contributes to enhanced MSW management efficiency and financial relief for the public sector (Massoud et al., 2003; Omran et al., 2009; King and Gutberlet, 2013; Oduro-Kwarteng and van Dijk, 2013; Rajamanikam et al., 2014; Tilaye and van Dijk, 2014). Incentives for the public sector encompass potential savings, addressing budget deficits, overcoming workforce expansion challenges, and preventing corruption (Ahmed and Ali, 2004). Meanwhile, the informal sector benefits from public demand, potential profit from recycled materials, and a sustainable income source through people’s willingness to pay for services (Charuvichaipong and Sajor, 2006; Gutberlet, 2008; Tilaye and van Dijk, 2014).
In Dhaka City, communities have taken the initiative to establish their informal waste collection services, recognizing the inadequacy of municipal efforts. This community-arranged system involves the collection of waste from households and depositing it in municipal roadside containers. Adopted by over 170 communities in Dhaka City, this participatory intervention has significantly increased garbage collection coverage by 20%, generated approximately 500 jobs, and evolved into a substantial environmental movement that addresses local waste management challenges (Ahmed and Ali, 2004) (Zahur et al 2007). This grassroots effort demonstrates the potential impact of community-driven solutions in addressing the complex issues associated with waste management.
4.4.3 Informal sector
The term “informal sector” in waste management encompasses individuals or enterprises engaged in private-sector recycling and waste management activities that operate independently or compete with formal waste authorities, often lacking formal sponsorship or recognition (Scheinberg et al., 2010). This sector encompasses a variety of entities, including waste pickers, itinerant/stationary waste buyers, small-scale and large-scale recycling industries, community-based organizations (CBOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and micro-enterprises (Ahsan et al., 2012; Yedla, 2012; Tukahirwa et al., 2013). While prevalent in the global south, the informal sector contributes to waste reduction, complements formal systems, and provides livelihoods. However, it also poses environmental risks due to inappropriate waste-handling methods (Sembiring and Nitivattananon, 2010; Velis et al., 2012).
In Dhaka, the management of solid waste recycling predominantly relies on informal waste pickers who lack the necessary skills for safe recycling practices, thereby exposing them to health risks during scavenging activities. Despite being aware of the associated risks, these informal waste pickers encounter financial challenges due to the informal nature of their work. While they exhibit an acceptable level of awareness and positive attitudes towards health risks, the pervasive issue of poverty acts as a significant barrier to maintaining their health, even when dedicated healthcare facilities are available. It is evident that awareness alone may not be sufficient to induce behavioral change among informal waste recyclers, highlighting the pressing need for improved access to healthcare, a nutritious diet, and specialized medical care. Additionally, delving into the impact of poverty on various facets of health is crucial in understanding comparable communities facing similar challenges (Ghaedrahmati 2023).
Informal collectors face health risks, often overlooked in research, and the complex socioeconomic context makes it challenging to attribute health issues solely to waste exposure (Gutberlet et al., 2013; Binion and Gutberlet, 2012). Proposed solutions for addressing challenges within the informal waste management sector involve implementing cooperative structures, fostering public-private partnerships, integrating with the formal waste management sector, and strengthening the enforcement of relevant policies. These measures aim to enhance the efficiency, safety, and overall sustainability of informal waste management practices, providing a framework for collaboration between informal and formal entities in the pursuit of effective waste management solutions (Wilson et al., 2006; Katusiimeh et al., 2013; Masood and Barlow, 2013; Oteng-Ababio et al., 2013; Sasaki et al., 2014). Waste sources are classified as residential, institutional/commercial, and municipal services, with the informal sector playing a significant role in recycling (Alfroz et al., 2011). Investigating motivations for waste reduction and recycling is crucial, with reward schemes and incentive systems proving effective. Government policies should focus on raising awareness, promoting knowledge, and motivating households to improve waste management practices (Tam & Tam, 2008; Alfroz et al., 2011). Understanding residents’ attitudes is essential for successful waste management programs and environmental pollution reduction.
4.2 Factors influencing the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) of waste management activities
Understanding the complex interplay between pro-environmental beliefs and behaviors is crucial for the effective operation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management schemes. Public acceptance significantly influences the success of these programs, and concerns about unfair treatment, concerns about unfair treatment, potential pollutants, and public health issues can activate the “Not in My Back Yard” (NIMBY) syndrome (Achilles et al., 2011). In this context, assessing public knowledge and attitudes towards solid waste recycling is fundamental for developing successful recycling programs and fostering public cooperation (Almasi et al., 2019). In Dhaka, the practical implementation of proper waste disposal practices faces significant challenges, with most households resorting to inappropriate methods, such as backyard disposal, burning in open air, and dumping along roadsides. Factors contributing to these improper practices include a lack of experience in sorting solid waste, limited knowledge about the principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R), insufficient solid waste landfills, and the absence of door-to-door waste collection services (Islam, 2016).
These practices pose substantial risks to both the environment and public health in Dhaka. To address these challenges, the study recommends advocating for proper solid waste management practices by the local government, emphasizing the construction of adequate landfills, providing shared containers, and implementing door-to-door waste collection services (Eshete et al., 2023). Research worldwide has explored people’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning recycling. While individual knowledge is considered crucial in shaping recycling practices and influencing the success of recycling programs (Bortoleto et al., 2012), there exists a notable gap between knowledge and practical implementation in waste management behaviors (Amouei et al., 2016). In Dhaka, a training intervention incorporating waste management workshops and capacity building significantly improved knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the community. This intervention played a crucial role in reducing harmful practices like open burning and highlighted the importance of women in household waste management (Hammed et al., 2018).
Table 2 Summary of studies based on the influence of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on waste management
| S.N. | Country | Objective | Conclusion | Reference |
| Bangladesh | Explore solid waste perception and management in Barishal City. | Effective solid waste management is influenced by socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors. | Abir et al 2023 | |
| Bangladesh | Perform an economic analysis examining the factors impacting solid waste management in Dhaka City. | Environmental consciousness, storage space, and age influence recycling behavior. | Alfroz 2011 | |
| Bangladesh | Investigate factors influencing recycling behavior in Dhaka city. | Environmental consciousness, storage space, and age positively predict recycling behavior. | Alfroz et al 2010 | |
| Bangladesh | Conduct an attitudinal study on residents of Chattogram for sustainable development. | Lack of knowledge and awareness hinders environmental prioritisation. Policy initiatives and awareness are needed for SWM. | Biswas et al 2020 | |
| Bangladesh | Discuss solid waste sources, composition, management systems, and public participation. | Solid waste knowledge, management practices, and public participation are vital for sustainable waste management. | Islam 2016 | |
| Bangladesh | Identify gaps and challenges in solid waste management policies in Bangladesh. | Lack of proper implementation, monitoring, and coordination among policy agencies. | Jerin et al 2022 | |
| Bangladesh | Evaluate the waste management capacity of Dhaka City Corporations. | It was developed with secondary and primary information. Updates and verifies information on MSW. | Kabir 2015 | |
| Bangladesh | Assess the status, livelihood, and vulnerability of waste pickers. | Shape policies considering livelihood, decent work for waste pickers, and recognition of their societal contribution. | Malak et al 2022 | |
| Bangladesh | Study occupational health and safety of child waste-pickers in Dhaka City. | Child waste-pickers face various health risks, including bites, cuts, respiratory problems, and more. | Praveen and Faisal 2005 | |
| Bangladesh | Provide a comprehensive method to evaluate MSW characteristics and management. | Analyzes benefits, challenges, economic aspects, and comparisons of WTE projects globally and in Bangladesh. | Roy et al 2022 | |
| Bangladesh | Assess MSW generation, management practices, and willingness to pay | More than 50% reuse organic waste. Small, higher-income, and educated households generate higher organic waste. | Sarkar et al 2024 | |
| Bangladesh | Systematic study of residential waste management. | Segregation at source is key to converting household waste from burden to resource. Education and assistance are essential. | Sujauddin et al 2008 | |
| Bangladesh | Explore MSW policies in Dhaka City using the policy triangle framework. | Slow entry of MSW in policies, lack of expertise, donor dependence, and multi-stakeholder involvement needed. | Sultana et al 2023 | |
| Cambodia | Assess waste knowledge, attitudes, and illegal dumping in Phnom Penh. | Improve education and income factors. Admin improvements are needed. Address illegal dumping. | Seng et al 2018 | |
| China | Assess psychological factors on household MSW separation in Jiangsu Province. | Affect, attitude, social factors influence separation intentions. Habits and facilitating conditions play roles. | Wang et al 2023 | |
| Ethiopia | Evaluate household SWM practices in a town. | The majority practised improper SWM, impacting the environment and public health. | Eshete et al 2023 | |
| Hong Kong | Investigate multi-family dwelling recycling behaviour using a modified KAP model. | Housing type, property manager initiative, attitude, and convenience influence recycling behaviour. | Ng 2019 | |
| Indonesia | Investigate knowledge, attitude, and participation in plastic waste reduction. | High knowledge, low participation. Strengthen education, provide incentives, and enforce regulations. | Bagastyo et al 2023 | |
| Iran | Evaluate women’s KAP on municipal waste management. | Increase participation, and education, provide facilities, and implement recycling programs. Emphasize education. | Almasi et al 2019 | |
| Iran | Explore factors influencing residents’ participation in waste source separation. | Provide MSW infrastructures, and improve awareness to promote recycling programs. Consider habits and facilitating conditions. | Babaei et al 2015 | |
| Malaysia | Assess university students’ knowledge, attitude, and practice towards consumption. | High knowledge, moderate attitude and practice. Social media primary source of environmental knowledge. | Ahamad and Ariffin 2018 | |
| Malaysia | Identify knowledge, attitude, and behaviour for Recycling and Source Separation practices. | Satisfactory levels are required for behaviour change. Recommendations for gradual transformation. | Yu et al 2022 | |
| Nigeria | Assess socio-cultural factors affecting solid waste generation in Bida. | Urbanization, awareness, economic status, and cultural factors influence solid waste generation. | BABASABA et al 2023 | |
| Nigeria | Assess community-led waste intervention effects. | Significant changes in waste practices. 4Rs strategy potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. | Hammed et al 2018 | |
| Philippines | Describe KAP on SWM in urban Butuan City. | Establish facilities, and waste provisions—incentives, awareness, and public participation are essential. | Cando et al 2022 | |
| South Africa | Assess waste management in Reservoir Hills informal settlement. | Positive attitudes, but reliance on the municipality for waste management. Continued education is needed. | Thakur and Onwubu 2024 | |
| Tehran | Assess the perceptions of health risks associated with informal waste recycling in Tehran. | Acceptable knowledge, and positive attitude, but poor adherence to healthy and safe behaviors among waste pickers. | Ghaedrahmati et al 2023 | |
| Tehran | Evaluate Tehranian KAP on SWM during COVID-19. | Training enhances awareness, but legislation crucial for proper waste separation and recycling during the pandemic. | Zand et al 2022 | |
| Thailand | Develop sustainable waste management in Bang Chalong. | Evaluate waste scenarios, and propose interventions. The waste-sorting plant reduces landfill waste and GHG emissions. | Pongpunpurt et al 2022 | |
| UK | Address gaps in understanding of food waste reduction behaviour using the Value-Attitude-Behavior. | Perceived values positively affect attitude toward reducing food waste. Age and gender are associated with social norms. | Habib et al 2023 | |
| Vietnam | Assess KAP on MSW separation at the source program in Lao Cai City. | Positive knowledge and attitude, but inadequate understanding of some aspects of the program. | Loan et al 2023 |
A study in Lao Cai explored Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) and perceptions of Pay-As-You-Throw regarding MSW Source Separation. Findings revealed challenges stemming from inadequate knowledge about waste separation benefits and highlighted the positive influence of effect, attitude, and social factors on MSW separation intentions (Wang et al., 2018). Similarly, another study emphasized the role of environmental protection as a crucial factor for participation in Recycling and Source Separation (R&SS), identifying time consumption and accessibility as barriers (Yu et al., 2022). The gap between households and local authorities emphasizes the crucial role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in fostering communication. To enhance public awareness, attitudes, and sustainable behaviour, improvements are needed in convenience, education, regulations, economic incentives, and public involvement in decision-making (Saphores et al., 2006; Munoz-Cadena et al., 2012; Tarasova et al., 2012; Che et al., 2013; Park and Berry, 2013). Challenges such as a lack of awareness about separation, insufficient public education, inadequate source separation facilities, and mixed transport and disposal methods hinder Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) separation participation, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive strategies (Zhang et al., 2012). Various studies have explored the interconnections between demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and recycling behaviour. While certain variables like gender, number of children, type and size of the house, and salary may not consistently influence recycling behaviour (Vencatasawmy et al., 2000), an integrated approach considering both socioeconomic and psychosocial factors is recommended for a comprehensive understanding (Nixon and Saphores, 2007). Environmental protection emerges as a primary motivation for recycling, with the significance of women in promoting effective MSW management highlighted (Laor et al., 2018).
In conclusion, addressing challenges in MSW management in Dhaka requires a multifaceted approach. Advocating for proper waste disposal practices, implementing training interventions, and enhancing public awareness are crucial steps. Additionally, the role of women, environmental protection motivations, and bridging communication gaps with local authorities and households through NGOs should be considered in developing effective and sustainable waste management programs. These efforts can contribute not only to environmental conservation but also to the overall well-being of the local population in Dhaka.
4.3 Importance of Policies for Successful Waste Management
Waste management policies are broadly categorized into laws and regulations, and social-psychological and economic incentives, following Taylor’s (2000) classification structure. Recent literature emphasizes specific strategies within each category. Laws and regulations involve measures such as bans on certain practices, control standards, mandatory participation in waste management initiatives, adherence to schedules, and product specifications promoting sustainability. Economic incentives encompass public subsidies, disposal fees, product charges, deposit refund systems, and user charges for waste-related services. Among economic incentives, user charges for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) collection and disposal are extensively discussed in the literature. These charges can be flat or variable, tied to the amount of waste generated. Variable charging, where rates adjust based on container size or weight, is favoured for its effectiveness in encouraging households to minimize waste generation. Despite concerns about illegal dumping, measures such as improving public acceptance, education, locking commercial bins, limiting weight per container, and strict enforcement can address these issues (De Jaeger et al., 2011; De Jaeger and Rogge, 2013). Studies highlight the effectiveness of weight-based pricing, public subsidies, and enhanced convenience as incentives without compromising cost efficiency (Owusu et al., 2013; Mueller, 2013).
However, the implementation of waste management policies faces challenges, creating a gap between policy-making and execution. In India, despite efforts and directives, effective waste management remains elusive due to deficiencies in resources, technical expertise, public awareness, and cooperation. Similarly, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, changes to MSW management face limitations, leading to increased mistrust among stakeholders. Local governments must assess proposed strategies, evaluate effectiveness, and develop models considering factors like enablers, barriers, environmental attitudes, and awareness. For Dhaka, a comprehensive, integrated, and incentive-compatible approach is crucial for any impactful waste management policy. Market-based instruments like ‘pay per bag,’ volumetric pricing, or deposit-refund systems can be effective, optimizing behaviour and reducing waste disposal costs through increased recycling. A combination of economic incentives, infrastructure development, and moral persuasion can shape household behaviour towards waste recycling. Understanding the determinants of household recycling behaviour is essential for formulating effective and sustainable policies in Bangladesh (Alfroz et al., 2011). This approach contributes to addressing waste issues and enhancing overall waste management quality in the country.
4.4 Research Gap and Recommendation
The study underscores several key recommendations to address the challenges in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management in Dhaka, Bangladesh, emphasizing the socio-cultural and economic factors influencing waste management practices. To align with the insights gleaned from an extensive literature review and the specific context of Dhaka, the following modified recommendations are proposed:
1. Knowledge Enhancement Programs:
Short-term and long-term training initiatives should be consistently implemented to enhance the understanding of residents regarding effective waste management practices. These programs should not only cover waste disposal methods but also encompass broader topics such as environmental conservation, cultural aspects, and the legal frameworks governing waste management.
2. Inclusive Collection Services: Policymakers and service providers need to prioritize the diverse needs of all households. Collection services should be made widely accessible, efficient, and sufficient to accommodate the unique waste disposal practices prevalent in different communities. Regular and frequent waste collection services should be a priority to ensure proper disposal and prevent improper practices.
3. Legal Enforcement: In areas where collection service issues are resolved, strict enforcement of Solid Waste Management (SWM) laws is imperative. This is crucial to ensure active public participation and adherence to established waste management guidelines. The focus should be on creating a regulatory environment that supports sustainable waste practices.
4. Exploration of Alternatives: In regions where a formal collection service is absent or challenging to implement, alternative solutions should be explored. Community-based solid waste collection and management initiatives can serve as viable options. Empowering local communities to take charge of their waste management can contribute to sustainable practices.
5. Future Research on Preferences and Willingness to Pay: Future studies should delve into the preferences and willingness to pay for waste management services. Understanding the community’s expectations and their financial commitment to these services is crucial for effective management planning. This research should be tailored to the socio-economic and cultural nuances identified in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
5 Conclusions
In Dhaka, Bangladesh, addressing solid waste management challenges requires a nuanced understanding of the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of its residents. Studies have shown that despite efforts to improve public awareness, socio-economic factors, cultural elements, and negative attitudes impede effective waste management. There is a notable lack of knowledge, particularly among lower-income groups, hindering participation in recycling activities. Public education campaigns must be tailored to economic-societal factors, emphasizing convenient and accessible information channels. Moreover, the role of women, who generally exhibit higher awareness, should be prioritized in awareness initiatives. The informal sector’s contributions to waste management are crucial, necessitating policy support, public-private partnerships, and improved conditions for waste pickers. Dhaka’s waste management policies should integrate economic incentives, such as variable user charges, while addressing challenges in implementation, including deficiencies in resources and technical expertise.
In conclusion, achieving sustainable waste management in Dhaka requires a holistic approach. Tailored public education campaigns, consideration of socio-economic factors, recognition of the informal sector, and effective policy implementation are key. Enhancing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of the public is pivotal for fostering a culture of responsible waste management and achieving lasting positive impacts in Bangladesh’s capital.
Titles and Links :
| S.N. | Title | Link to journal |
| Occupational health impacts on the child waste-pickers of Dhaka City | https://www.witpress.com/elibrary/wit-transactions-on-biomedicine-and-health/9/15688 | |
| Household solid waste characteristics and management in Chittagong, Bangladesh | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956053X07002255 | |
| A survey of recycling behaviour in households in Dhaka, Bangladesh | https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0734242X09353434?journalCode=wmra | |
| Sustainable household waste management improvement in Dhaka city, Bangladesh | https://www.inderscience.com/offers.php?id=47775 | |
| An overview of progress towards implementation of solid waste management policies in Dhaka, Bangladesh | https://www.cell.com/heliyon/fulltext/S2405-8440(22)00206-7?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2405844022002067%3Fshowall%3Dtrue | |
| Household recycling knowledge, attitudes and practices towards solid waste management | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0921344915300331?via%3Dihub | |
| Assessing the Factors Influencing Effective Municipal Solid Waste Management System in Barishal Metropolitan Area | https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=122586#:~:text=This%20study%20suggests%20that%20the,collection%20routes%2C%20utilizing%20available%20resources%2C | |
| Impacts of policy and market incentives for solid waste recycling in Dhaka, Bangladesh | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956053X15000719?via%3Dihub | |
| A Review on Characteristics, Techniques, and Waste-to-Energy Aspects of Municipal Solid Waste Management: Bangladesh Perspective | https://ideas.repec.org/a/gam/jsusta/v14y2022i16p10265-d891479.html | |
| Household solid waste management in a recently established municipality of Bangladesh: Prevailing practices, residents’ perceptions, attitude and awareness | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772655X23000757#:~:text=Respondents%20were%20satisfied%20with%20the,issues%20caused%20by%20waste%20mismanagement. | |
| Municipal Solid Waste Management System: A Study on Dhaka North and South City Corporations | https://www.scirp.org/reference/referencespapers?referenceid=2829283 |