GUIDELINES FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT IN KHAO SAM YOD MUNICIPALITY MAUNG DISTRICT LOPBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research had two objectives: (1) to investigate the problems of waste management in Khao Sam Yot Municipality, Mueang District, Lopburi Province; and (2) to identify appropriate guidelines for waste management in Khao Sam Yot Municipality, Mueang District, Lopburi Province. The study employed a qualitative research approach using in-depth interviews with 17 key informants. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The findings revealed the following:

1. Waste Management Problems A portion of the population still lacks environmental awareness and participation in community environmental conservation, particularly in waste segregation at the household level. Some households do not cooperate in paying waste collection fees, which may result from incomplete household surveys or municipal database systems that are not regularly updated. Consequently, fee collection does not cover all households and lacks consistency between households and commercial establishments. In addition, the number of vehicles available for waste collection is sufficient only under normal operating conditions and the vehicles are not equipped with modern technology. Furthermore, the municipality does not have its own waste management or disposal facility and therefore relies on facilities operated by other agencies. This dependence results in additional expenses and may limit the municipality’s long-term waste management planning.


2. Waste Management Guidelines The proposed guidelines consist of four dimensions (1) Human Resources: Public education, training, and awareness campaigns should be conducted continuously and consistently in all communities to cultivate environmental consciousness and encourage long-term public participation in environmental conservation. (2) Financial Management: The waste collection fee system should be improved by regularly updating and maintaining accurate household, population, business, and enterprise databases. Appropriate fee rates should also be established to ensure fairness and efficiency. (3) Materials and Equipment: Backup waste collection vehicles should be provided to replace those undergoing maintenance or repair. Additionally, the municipality should consider procuring waste collection vehicles equipped with modern technologies and systems. (4) Management: The municipality should acquire a suitable area for its own waste management or disposal facility in order to reduce expenses associated with renting disposal sites or paying annual disposal fees. Such a facility would also reduce transportation distances for waste disposal. Cost savings in this area could be redirected toward improving and modernizing the waste management system, ultimately leading to sustainable waste management in the long term.