Assessment of Economic Condition Impact on People's Awareness, Attitudes and Practices Towards Recycling of Solid Wastes, a Case Study in Tabriz

Waste production is an integral part of human life. Besides reduction in waste production, one of the most important strategies solid waste management is solid waste recycling which has environmental and economic benefits. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of Tabriz citizens to participate in recycling.

This cross-sectional study involved 450 samples, in three different regions of Tabriz with high, average and low income levels (150 from each district), selected by systematic sampling. The relevant data were collected by questionnaires and were analyzed in SPSS and Excel software.

The results of this study showed that the majority of Tabriz citizens had acceptable information about waste and recycling. Average knowledge, attitude and practices of the various regions were 86.8%, 75.6% and 59% respectively. There was no significant association in this field in three different regions (p.value > 0.05). Comparing the regions, education and welfare of the residents had no effect on the willingness to participate in recycling programs.

The results of the study reflect the community's readiness to accept the change and management of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in the recycling programs. Consequently, recycling would be implemented successfully if organizations (e.g. municipalities, health center, education...) have been coordinated and collaborated with citizens.