Residents’ perception of factors affecting solid waste management practices: An assessment in Plumtree Town, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This research assesses the residents’ perception of factors affecting solid waste management practices in Plumtree Town, Zimbabwe. The study revealed a medium positive correlation between stakeholder involvement and solid waste management practices, emphasizing the importance of engaging stakeholders in waste management processes to improve solid waste management practices. Furthermore, the research found that enabling factors had a medium positive correlation with solid waste management practices, underscoring the need for better infrastructure and equipment to support effective waste management practices. The study also identified financial constraints as major obstacles to solid waste management, highlighting the significance of addressing these issues to ensure adequate resources are available to support sustainable waste management practices. Future research recommendations include expanding the sample size to include a more diverse group of residents, evaluating the effectiveness of specific interventions aimed at improving solid waste management practices and exploring the role of technology in waste management practices. The study suggests increasing stakeholder involvement in waste management processes, improving enabling factors such as infrastructure and equipment, and enforcing compliance with relevant legislation and regulations to create a more sustainable and efficient waste management system that benefits both the environment and the community. Despite some limitations limited time frame which may not reflect changes in solid waste management practices or factors affecting them that may occur in the future, this research provides valuable insights into the perception of residents regarding solid waste management practices in Plumtree Town, Zimbabwe, and identifies key areas for future research.