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Abstract
Abstract Aim: This research addresses gaps in waste management practices and promotes sustainable waste management initiatives at the university level. Methods: This study investigates the factors influencing source separation intention to improve waste management at Saveh University of Medical Sciences. A total of 130 questionnaires, consisting of 11 multipart questions, were distributed to students through face-to-face interviews using simple random sampling. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software (IBM Corporation, USA). Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted, Qualitative indices were presented as percentages, while quantitative indices were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Data analysis was performed using Student’s t-test, correlation coefficient, and Fisher’s exact test. The significance level for all statistical tests was set at 0.05. The questionnaire’s validity was assessed through face validity, and its reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, which yielded a value of 0.884. Results: The results of the current study indicate that a majority of students at Saveh University of Medical Sciences are willing to participate in source separation of waste, as reflected by a mean score of 7.58 out of 9. However, the study identified several barriers to effective implementation, including insufficient awareness (mean score of 4.92 out of 9), inadequate planning within the university (mean score of 2.48 out of 9), and a lack of official activities to educate students about source separation (mean score of 2.37 out of 9). To address these challenges, participating students suggested organizing exhibitions of recyclable products at the university level (mean score of 6.16 out of 9) as an effective method for communication and education. In addition, the study found a statistically significant relationship between participants’ awareness of source separation and their level of participation, with a P = 0.01 and a correlation coefficient of 0.24. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing awareness and educational initiatives to improve student engagement in waste separation practices. Conclusion: Students’ trust in university management regarding source separation is low, primarily due to insufficient education and a lack of visible commitment. To address this issue, the university should prioritize awareness campaigns, emphasize the importance of environmental preservation, and highlight the impact of even small individual actions. Implementing these measures can significantly enhance student participation in waste separation programs.
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