Authors: 1Eduardo D. Magdayo Jr., 2Bryan L. Bitantos, 3Niko O. Artizona, 4Kiara R. Lapuhapo
1,2,3,4 Environmental Science Department, College of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Mindanao State University - Buug Campus, Datu Panas,
Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines.
Email: magdayoeduardo@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Mindanao State University-Buug Campus is a rising and developing state university in Zamboanga Peninsula. As a developing university, it faced challenges institutionally, financially, academically and environmentally. Environmentally, MSU-Buug faced issue on
solid waste mismanagement. There were already measures undertaken to improve solid waste management in the campus but solid
wastes were still seen scattered around the university vicinities. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the level of awareness on
solid waste among the students, waste characterization, waste issue, and management. A descriptive research design was used in the
study with 310 respondents. It employed a questionnaire concerning the awareness of solid waste management of the students. Key
informant interview was done to determine the present solid waste management practices, issues, problems, and solutions. Weighing
scale was used in determining the weight of solid waste. Data were gathered, analyzed, and interpreted using frequency and percentage distribution and chi-square test. Findings showed that the level of awareness on solid waste management among the students was
high, there was no significant relationship on the level of awareness on solid waste management in terms of the student’s age, course,
year level and tract, however, there was a significant relationship on the level of awareness on solid waste management in terms of the
student’s sex. There were 5 types of waste generated in the university which are: biodegradable, non-biodegradable, recyclable, special and hazardous waste. The total volume of waste generated in one month was 613.8 kg. No garbage policy, segregation, proper
waste disposal and composting were the present practices on solid waste management. Undisciplined students and lack of funding on
solid waste management projects were the issues that need to be addressed.
Keywords: Awareness, solid waste management, segregation.