Determinants of solid waste disposal practices among households

The rate of waste generation is alarming, especially in developing countries where governments spend considerable financial resources to manage waste. It is anticipated that, by 2050, the world will generate 73% more municipal solid waste than in 2020. As a result, thisstudy examined the factors that determine household solid waste disposal practices in the Sunyani Municipality. In this quantitative study, asurvey research design was adopted, and questionnaires were administered to 354 respondents. Both inferential and descriptive statistics were employed to analyse the data collected, which were entered into SPSS (version 24.0). The study found that domestic solid waste accounted for the majority of urban waste, due to the large volumes generated by households and the varied types of solid waste dumped daily. Households used polythene bags/sacks, covered and uncovered containers and standard waste bins as receptacles to store waste for a maximum of one week before final disposal. Public dumping (Central container) was the mostcommon method of solid waste disposal. However, the study found that the association between the status of place of residence, household income level, and the process of solid waste disposal was statistically significant. The municipality's current approach to waste disposal warrants attention, and recommendations are provided. The study recommends that waste managers educate residents on the benefits of sorting solid waste into various components before disposal. More waste containers should be provided to serve all residents living in low-, medium-, or high-income areas. The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) was adopted in this studyto clarify the factors influencing human behaviour and decision-making. The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) is a psychological theory that links beliefs to behaviour. The study confirmed that personal attitudes encompass the overall evaluation of behaviour, including both positive and negative approaches to solid waste management. Philosophically, the Environmental Ethics ideology, which emphasises the intrinsic value of nature, is reflected in the study. Central to this ideology is the interconnectedness of the environment and the responsibility residents have to protect it to maintain ecological balance. The Integrated Sustainable Waste Management (ISWM) framework is a holistic approach to waste management that prioritises sustainability and efficiency. It encompasses waste reduction, efficient collection systems, recycling, and resource recovery, as well as environmentally responsible disposal methods when necessary.