Accounting for Trash Management at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu

Abstract

This paper provides preliminary evidence of the need for accounting for trash management in public organizations, in particular, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). It has two objectives: to solicit opinions from students regarding their behaviors and perceptions towards recycling habits, and to provide data on the extent of accounting for trash management at UMT. A survey among 155 UMT students indicated that they recycled the trash and were aware of environmental issues caused by the waste. However, they were not informed about the benefits of environmental management accounting practice particularly regarding trash management. Interviews with UMT management also revealed that while UMT supported recycling activities by funding the projects and providing facilities, the data on the opportunity cost involved in the current practice was never integrated into UMT accounting system. As a result, the management had no idea of how much was lost (or gained) during the process. Based on the findings, this study calls for the implementation of accounting for trash management in a public university.