Analysis of socioeconomic and behavioral factors influencing participation in community-based recycling program: A case of peri-urban town in Thailand

Abstract

This study analyzed the factors influencing a community-based waste recycling program to achieve a recycling rate 5-11 times/members higher than average community-based recycling programs in Thailand. This study identified key factors and insights from waste bank members to provide recommendations for improving the performance of other community-based programs. A face-to-face survey was conducted in Phang Khon Municipality (PKM), Thailand, where the waste bank is situated. A total of 386 questionnaires were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression analysis. The investigation tested how selected variables, such as socioeconomic factors, attitude toward sound waste management practices, types of waste separation, and additional willingness to pay for improving the waste management system, have an influence on different groups of recyclers and impact recycling performance. The findings revealed that members of the waste bank have different socioeconomic and pro-recycling characteristics, i.e., attitude toward proper waste management practices, recycling practice, and additional willingness to pay for improving the waste management system, compared to respondents who recycle through direct waste selling, and who do not recycle. Based on key factor findings in this study, policy recommendation for waste management entities are provided.