UTM student awareness towards solid waste segregation in residential college

Abstract

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a local university which practices sustainable campus concept. One of the criteria highlighted in a sustainable campus is good solid waste management. In this regard, UTM under the management of UTM Campus Sustainability Unit has organized a solid waste segregation program which its aim was to measure the level of UTM student awareness towards solid waste segregation. The target group of this study was the undergraduate students who regularly use the food arcade. Data source in this study was based on questionnaires distributed among the participants (n=375). The data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software quantitative method, and presented in the form of tables and graphs. The results of the study revealed that the student awareness towards solid waste management in UTM, in particular solid waste segregation was very moderate. In order to improve this situation, initiatives such as increasing the number of sustainable food arcade and equipping the campus with solid waste separation infrastructure are just some to start with. In conclusion, this survey conducted has provided UTM Campus Sustainability Unit with an insight into the current student awareness level on solid waste segregation and so that further steps can be taken to promote this green approach.