Role of Social Work in Promoting Environmental Sustainability: A Rural Solid Waste Management Study from Kagal Nagar Parishad

Abstract Environmental sustainability has emerged as a critical concern in rural India due to changing consumption patterns, population growth, and inadequate waste management systems. Rural areas increasingly face challenges related to improper disposal of solid waste, leading to environmental degradation, public health risks, and social problems. Social work, with its focus on community participation, social responsibility, and sustainable development, plays a vital role in addressing these challenges. The present study examines the role of social work in promoting environmental sustainability through rural solid waste management initiatives under Kagal Nagar Parishad, with specific reference to Talandage and Sangav villages. The study was conducted as part of fieldwork practice during the Master of Social Work (MSW) programme. Data were collected using Google Forms created by the Sampurna Earth Livelihood Foundation Kagal, Direct face-to-face interactions, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and Field observations. The findings highlight that social work interventions such as awareness creation, community mobilisation, behavioural change communication, and collaboration with local self-governance institutions significantly contribute to effective waste management in rural areas. The study concludes that integrating social work practice with rural environmental governance can enhance sustainability, improve public health, and strengthen community ownership of development initiatives.