TRASH TO TREASURE: EFFICIENCY OF RECYCLING FOR WASTE REDUCTION AS PERCEIVED BY SELECTED GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Recycling is a key waste management strategy aimed at minimizing waste generation. It involves the redesigning or reprocessing of recyclable materials to extend their usability and reduce the harmful impacts of improper waste disposal on both human health and the environment. Baccini and Brunner (1991) introduced the Material Flow Analysis (MFA) theory, which illustrates the origin, usage, and final destination of materials. This approach promotes responsible waste management by helping individuals, particularly students, understand the life cycle of materials. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of recycling in waste reduction, focusing on its economic impact, its significance as a waste management practice, and its contribution to environmental sustainability. The researchers employed a descriptive-evaluative research design to assess the efficiency of recycling practices. A cluster sampling technique was utilized to minimize selection bias and ensure a representative group of respondents. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire administered to two hundred (200) Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. The results of the study demonstrate the efficiency of recycling in terms of its economic role, contribution to waste management, and impact on environmental sustainability, with a composite mean of 3.43, verbally interpreted as strongly agree. However, several challenges were identified in the use of recyclable materials. Among the 200 surveyed students, 140 (22.99%) reported issues related to contamination, 133 (21.84%) cited a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of recycling, and 117 (19.21%) expressed concerns about potential health risks.

In response to these findings, the researchers proposed an action plan aimed at enhancing recycling efficiency for waste reduction. Key strategies include the implementation of proper waste segregation practices, the active involvement of students in school-based waste management campaigns, and the development of awareness programs targeting students, teachers, administrators, and school organizations. The implementation of this action plan is recommended over three months. The discussion presents a summary of the perceived efficiency of recycling among selected Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Based on the findings, the researchers recommend that schools establish organizations or implement programs focused on waste reduction. These initiatives should aim to educate all members of the school community on proper waste management practices and promote strategies that enhance the efficiency of recycling within the school environment.