Paper Details

ABSTRACT Background: Rapid urbanization in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has created significant solid waste management challenges, impacting environmental and public health. This study assesses household knowledge levels on solid waste management, focusing on socio-demographic factors such as age, income, and education. Research Methodology: A quantitative research design was used, surveying 404 households across six GHMC zones: LB Nagar, Charminar, Khairthabad, Secunderabad, Serilingampally, and Kukatpally. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using one-way ANOVA to examine variations in knowledge levels based on age, income, and education. Results: Significant demographic variations in knowledge levels were found. Awareness of the government bin program varied by age (F = 3.468, p = 0.016) and income (F = 4.216, p = 0.001). Higher income and education levels were linked to better knowledge of waste management practices. Households with higher education levels showed greater awareness of the ban on plastic carry bags less than 75 microns thick (F = 12.515, p < 0.000). The highest awareness was about the prohibition of thin plastic bags (mean score = 3.550), while the tipper auto waste collection concept had the lowest awareness (mean score = 2.844). Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of socio-demographic factors in shaping environmental awareness and behavior towards waste management. Tailored educational initiatives and policy interventions are crucial to bridge knowledge gaps and improve household participation in waste management, thereby contributing to sustainable urban development in Hyderabad.

Keywords: Solid waste management, household knowledge, GHMC, socio-demographic factors, public awareness, sustainable urban development.