Assessment of Household Waste Management Practices in South Indian Villages

Abstract

Background: Household waste management is an important public health and environmental concern in rural areas of South India. Rapid population growth, changing lifestyles, and increased consumption have led to a rise in the generation of household waste. In many villages, inadequate waste segregation, improper disposal practices, open dumping, and burning of waste contribute to environmental pollution and health hazards. Effective household waste management is essential for achieving sustainable rural development and improving the quality of life in South Indian villages. The aim of the present study is to assess the awareness regarding waste management and to determine waste generation, segregation, storage and disposal practices at the household level.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the field practice area of Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences, comprising five villages to assess household waste management practices. Data were collected from households using a pre-tested structured questionnaire through face to face interviews. Information regarding waste generation, segregation, storage, collection, and disposal practices was gathered. The collected data were compiled and analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the findings were presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Among 153 participants, awareness of waste management was moderate; however, proper practices were inadequate. Open dumping (60.1%) and the use of uncovered bins (88%) were highly prevalent, while lack of waste collection services (51%) emerged as the major barrier to effective household waste management.

Conclusion: Despite reasonable awareness, scientific household waste management practices remain poor in rural communities. Strengthening waste collection infrastructure, promoting source segregation, and implementing sustained community-based awareness programs are essential to achieve sustainable environmental health.