Employing "Basura Siksik" Program to Develop Ecological Solid Waste Management

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Around the world, efforts are being made to make people aware about environmental protection. One of the main causes of environmental degradation is improper solid waste management. There is no permanent solution to environmental problems. The only thing we can do is to reduce and control waste generation by proper awareness and practice (Municipal Ordinance No. 1, s. 2009).

METHODS

The participants of the study were the Grade 2 pupils of Wakat Elementary School, S.Y 2017 -2018. A total of 34 pupils. Anecdotal record of observations by the researcher and peers were also used as source of data. A questionnaire was given to the pupils. The purpose and method of the study was explained to the pupils and consent was sought by the researcher from the parents. The instrument of research was a validated, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to assess pupils' knowledge, attitude, and practice on waste management.

RESULTS

Pupils are well aware of the principles of waste minimization and the role of school authorities in waste management, segregation of waste, effective mechanism for waste management, and complications of improper waste management. Regarding practice of proper waste management, pupils have proper ideas and practice of waste segregation. They are committed to minimize waste, avoid littering, and to keep their waste. Results reveal a significant difference in the pretest and posttest mean. The computed t-value implies the rejection of the assumption that there is no significant difference.

DISCUSSIONS

The level of practice of the pupils before the intervention was low. There was an increase on the level of practice of the pupils on proper waste disposal after the implementation of the Basura Siksik Program. A significant difference was evident after the implementation of the program and implies that the intervention implemented was effective. The intervention could be implemented by other teachers together with their classes to develop their pupils' level of practice on waste management.