Understanding Waste Management Knowledge and Habits of Senior High School Students in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Authors

• Arnele Mie A. Fanuga, Department of Fisheries, Marine and Environmental Sciences, College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, North Eastern Mindanao State University–Lianga campus, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, 8307Follow
• Romy M. Avila, Department of Fisheries, Marine and Environmental Sciences, College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, North Eastern Mindanao State University–Lianga campus, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, 8307
• Reyl Justine J. Ballena, Department of Fisheries, Marine and Environmental Sciences, College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, North Eastern Mindanao State University–Lianga campus, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, 8307

Abstract

The effective implementation of Solid Waste Management (SWM) in educational institutions is challenged by increasing student populations, limited infrastructure, and inconsistent policy enforcement. This study assessed the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of senior high school students regarding SWM in three secondary schools in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Data were collected using a descriptive-correlational design from 150 students selected through quota sampling. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed significant associations between knowledge and attitude, and between attitude and practice. Knowledge scores were positively correlated across the three secondary schools. Students demonstrated a high level of awareness of the environmental and health impacts of improper waste disposal and expressed generally positive attitudes toward SWM. Nevertheless, discrepancies were observed between knowledge and actual practices, particularly in littering behaviors and limited recycling. Although school‑level initiatives fostered more favorable attitudes, structural challenges, such as inadequate segregation bins, irregular waste collection, and limited access to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), continued to hinder proper waste disposal. Strengthening environmental education, improving waste‑management infrastructure, and ensuring consistent policy enforcement are recommended to promote more sustainable waste practices among students.

Keywords

attitudes; knowledge; practices; segregation; senior high school students; waste minimization

Publication Date

2026

Received Date

31 Oct 2025

Revised Date

19 Apr 2026

Accepted Date

20 June 2026

Recommended Citation

Fanuga, Arnele Mie A.; Avila, Romy M.; and Ballena, Reyl Justine J. (2026) "Understanding Waste Management Knowledge and Habits of Senior High School Students in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Philippines," ASEAN Journal on Science and Technology for Development: Vol. 43: No. 2, Article 12.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61931/ajstd.2224-9028.1658
Available at: https://ajstd.ubd.edu.bn/journal/vol43/iss2/12