TRASH TALK: AWARENESS AND PRACTICES OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ON SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN SAN MATEO, ISABELA

This study explores the awareness and practices of solid waste management among Senior High School students in San Mateo, Isabela. It aims to determine whether the education provided in schools sufficiently equips students to manage solid waste effectively in their daily lives. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, targeting 146 students through a survey questionnaire. The results reveal that most respondents are highly aware of the importance of solid waste management, the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), and the adverse effects of improper waste disposal. Despite high awareness levels, the correlation between awareness and actual practices was found to be minimal to negligible. The study highlights partial compliance in recycling and proper waste disposal practices, indicating gaps in resources, facilities, and information dissemination. The findings underscore the need for enhanced education and community engagement to foster sustainable waste management habits among students. The study contributes to the understanding of solid waste management practices in the educational context, suggesting improvements for municipal SWM planning and implementation.