COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN WASTE SEPARATION AT SOURCE: A CASE STUDY OF KABIN SUBDISTRICT COMMUNITY, KABIN BURI DISTRICT, PRACHIN BURI PROVINCE UNDER THE NATIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN (2022 – 2027) FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

     This study aims to examine community participation and analyze factors influencing waste separation at source in Kabin Subdistrict, Kabinburi District, Prachinburi Province, within the framework of the National Waste Management Action Plan (2022–2027). Data were collected from 400 residents using questionnaires and from in-depth interviews with representatives of relevant agencies. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. The findings show that most respondents were female (201 persons, 50.25%), belonged to Generation X (147 persons, 36.75%), and mainly worked as private company employees (167 persons, 41.75%), followed by self-employed individuals (95 persons, 23.75%). The majority had an average monthly income of 10,001–20,000 baht (184 persons, 46%) and had lived in the community for more than 10 years (104 persons, 26%). Most received information on waste management through local administrative organizations. Overall community participation in waste separation was at a moderate level. Hypothesis testing revealed that education level was the only personal factor significantly associated with participation, while gender, generation, occupation, income, length of residence, information exposure, knowledge, attitudes, motivation, and infrastructure showed no statistical relationship. Although the community expressed positive attitudes toward waste separation, they did not perceive it as a direct responsibility, indicating unclear motivation and a lack of tangible incentives. These findings highlight key challenges for enhancing sustained community participation in waste separation practices.