Development of a Participatory Community Network Model for Sustainable Waste and Environmental Management: A Case Study of Ban Sok Phara Community, Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

Background and Aims: Solid waste and environmental management have become critical challenges affecting community health, environmental quality, and sustainable development. In many rural communities, ineffective waste management systems and limited public awareness contribute to increasing environmental problems. Therefore, promoting participatory approaches and strengthening community networks are essential for achieving sustainable waste and environmental management. This study aimed to: (1) examine the context, problems, and potential of community waste and environmental management; (2) develop a participatory community network model; and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of the model in terms of knowledge, behavior, and community participation.

Methodology: This research employed Participatory Action Research (PAR). The sample consisted of 60 participants, including community members, leaders, and stakeholders from Ban Sok Phara community, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, questionnaires, observations, and focus group discussions. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

Results: The findings indicated that the community faced waste management problems due to a lack of systematic processes and insufficient knowledge; however, it possessed strong social capital and community cooperation. The developed model, named the “APAM Model,” consists of four components: Awareness, Participation, Action, and Monitoring. After implementation, community members showed significant improvement in knowledge (mean increased from 2.80 to 4.35), behavior (2.65 to 4.20), and participation (2.70 to 4.40). Additionally, tangible outcomes were observed, including the establishment of waste separation points, model households, and strengthened community networks.

Conclusion: The participatory community network model effectively enhances knowledge, behavior, and participation in waste management, leading to sustainable environmental practices at the community level. The model can be applied and adapted to other communities with similar contexts to promote long-term sustainability.