ANALYSIS OF HOUSEHOLD'S E-WASTE AWARNESS DISPOSAL BEHAVIOUR AND ESTIMATE OF POTENTIAL TOWARDS EFFECTIVE E-WASTE MANAGEMENT IN GALLE DISTRICT

Abstract

This study investigates the awareness, practices, and perceptions regarding electronic waste (e-waste) management among households in Galle District, Sri Lanka. E-waste poses significant environmental and health risks due to its toxic components and improper disposal methods. The research aims to fulfill four primary objectives: first, to assess the extent of e-waste awareness among households, focusing on understanding its environmental impacts and the importance of responsible disposal practices. Second, is to analyze current e-waste disposal behaviors among households, identifuing prevalent methods and their implications for environmental sustainability. Third, to identiff potential areas for enhancing e-waste management practices within Galle District, including opportunities for recycling, reuse, or improved waste management strategies. Finally, based on findings, the study provides recommendations and insights for local authorities, organizations, and communities to enhance e-waste awareness and management practices. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research gathered quantitative data through surveys and qualitative insights through interviews with household representatives. Descriptive analysis revealed varied levels of e-waste awareness among participants, with a notable lack of knowledge concerning the environmental impacts of improper disposal. Findings from regression and correlation analyses highlighted significant factors influencing ewaste management behaviors, including awareness levels, socio-eccnomic status, and access to disposal facilities. Correlation analysis further underscored the relationships between these factors and actual disposal practices, revealing gaps between awareness and action. The study's conclusions emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive ewaste education programs targeting households in Galle District. Recommendations include the establishment of community-based collection centers, educationai campaigns on e-waste hazards, and partnerships between local authorities and recycling industries to promote sustainable practices. Limitations include the study's focus on a specific geographical area and potential biases in self-reported data. Future research could expand to include broader geographical areas and longitudinal studies to assess the effectiveness of intervention strategies over time. Keywords: Electronic Waste, E-Waste Management, Household Practices, Environmental Awareness, Sri Lanka