Abstract:
The acceleration of the accumulation of solid waste is a major national issue that needs a quick
attention in Sri Lanka at present. The lack of policy framework triggers this situation.
Exploration of attitude and perception at the grass-root level motivate to build a strong policy
foundation to stand as a better and healthy nation in future. Therefore, this study explores
young generation’s view on solid waste management with the aim of developing a solid waste
management policy. The study used two methodologies: questionnaire survey and Participatory
Rural Appraisal (PRA) method. A sample survey of 1000 respondents from five randomly
selected schools in Matara, Sri Lanka was conducted in late 2019. In PRA, students were grouped
as 10-15 students per group. The data were analysed by using descriptive and inferential
statistics. The study results related to survey indicated that: (1) majority (52.4%) of students
were highly aware and already engaged in solid waste management practices; (2) gender
significantly shapes (Mean male = 4.01 Mean female = 4.82; t =4.30 p=0.000) their perception on
readiness of using solid waste management practices; stressing the importance of considering
gender in solid waste management policies. Based on the results of PRA, study suggests that an
effective solid waste management policy should mainly be focused on 3R concept.
