The Transforming Waste: The Impact of Student Culture on Solid Waste Management Practices in Community Colleges

This study examines the impact of student culture on solid waste management practices in community colleges, specifically focusing on Opol Community College. The research highlights how environmental awareness, social influence, cultural norms, and participation in waste management activities shape students' behavior toward sustainability. A descriptive and regression research design was employed to explore the relationship between these cultural factors and waste management practices. The study found that students generally exhibit a positive level of environmental awareness and engagement in recycling and waste reduction practices. Peer influence and social norms play a significant role in motivating students to adopt sustainable behaviors. However, challenges remain in fostering collective responsibility and ensuring consistent participation across all activities. The study also revealed that cultural norms and resource availability, such as waste segregation bins, significantly affect the effectiveness of waste management practices. The findings suggest that educational institutions should further integrate sustainability into student culture through peer-led initiatives and clear communication of waste management policies. These efforts could enhance students' involvement in waste management and contribute to more sustainable campus environments.