Utilization of Project Trash of Fun in Enhancing the Solid Waste Management and Disposal Strategy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Waste management is a key factor in achieving positive change within schools, leading to a healthy learning environment. Proper waste management and disposal have been a long-time problem in our school. This scenario may compromise school environmental quality as well as the students' health. As in-depth support on the waste reduction program of the school, the proponent would like to give emphasis on the utilization of Project Trash of Fun in improving the solid waste management and disposal strategy of Guronasyon Foundation Incorporated National High School.

METHODS

The objective of the study is to know the students' attitude towards waste management and disposal since most of the trash was contributed by the students. The respondents of the study were 40 students of Grade 7-Luna, using the one-shot group testing and survey-questionnaire. With adaptation from the reward redemption system of arcades like World of Fun, Timezone, Quantum, and etc., students are encouraged to collect and segregate trash/ garbage and earn points/ticket from it. The more trash you redeem, the more tickets you receive in exchange for prizes.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that the project is effective, having a p-value of less than 0.05, which means that the null hypothesis is rejected with a verbal interpretation of significant. This means that the students’ attitude towards waste management changed for the better. Students actively engaged in the project, leaving their classroom with properly organized and segregated waste. This also shows that in order to improve current practices on waste disposal, innovative, fun, and engaging activities should be utilized to enhance solid waste management and disposal strategy. Projects like Trash of Fun shall be utilized in school to garner excitement for a more comprehensive waste reduction project.

DISCUSSIONS

The findings implied that Project Trash of Fun helped in enhancing the school’s solid waste management and disposal strategy. Changing waste management behavior will not be a simple or straightforward exercise.No single model exists to enable change actions in relation to waste management. There should be the necessity of committed environmental education to inculcate a proper and appropriate environmental culture among students. Though it is not easy to influence members of the school who are not as enthusiastic or engaged in the projects as they could be, it is a must to get them engaged by reminding them of the cause and benefits of the project.