DEVELOPING A WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM BASED ON THE CONTEXT OF THE LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION IN RATCHABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

The increasing problem of municipal solid waste and the limitations in the management capacity of local administrative organizations in Ratchaburi Province have resulted in unsustainable waste management. This research aims to extract lessons learned from municipal solid waste management in Ratchaburi Province to develop a code of practice and policy recommendations for sustainable waste management. The research employs a qualitative methodology, selecting four case study areas using purposive sampling: Krab Yai Subdistrict Municipality, Khao Khlung Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Lak Mueang Subdistrict Municipality, and Don Krabueang Subdistrict Administrative Organization. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 39 individuals: 4 administrators, 7 local administrative organization staff, 8 informants from community waste sources, 13 informants from private sector waste sources, and 7 social network representatives, as well as focus group discussions with four target groups: local administrators, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders. The research findings indicate that organic waste is the most abundant and primarily originates from households. General waste presents the most significant collection challenges, while recyclable waste shows a continuous upward trend. Effective waste management approaches include establishing model communities with mentoring systems, sorting waste at the source according to the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), and establishing clear waste disposal points and days. Furthermore, collaboration with the private sector in managing waste at the distribution point can lead to policy recommendations for designating household waste sorting areas, expanding community environmental charters, and promoting a circular economy from waste, thereby enhancing sustainable waste management at the local and national levels.