Assessing the relationship of knowledge and attitudes on e-waste recycling practices among students of higher learning institutions

Background and Purpose: In Malaysia, there is a significant lack of awareness and understanding about recycling electronic waste (e-waste) among the general population, including students. The absence of consciousness regarding the appropriate handling of e-waste contributes to its inappropriate disposal, resulting in the deposition of numerous electronic gadgets in landfills. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on e-waste recycling among students in higher institutions in Muadzam Shah, Pahang, Malaysia. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted via an online questionnaire, and data were analysed using SPSS version 29. The study involved 213 higher education students from Muadzam Shah, Pahang, Malaysia with the sample size validated by G*Power analysis. The questionnaire, based on the Knowledge, Attitude, Practice Variables, was measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Findings: Descriptive statistics reveal that students exhibit high levels of knowledge, attitude and practice towards e-waste recycling with the mean value more than 3.5. Correlation analysis shows a significant positive relationship between knowledge and practice and between attitude and practice. Regression analysis confirms that attitude significantly predicts recycling practices, while knowledge does not. These findings highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes towards e-waste within educational programmes and activities that seek to improve recycling endeavours among students. Contributions: The necessity for conscientious e-waste management strategies is crucial to alleviate inadequate disposal methods that are detrimental to the environmental and health consequences. By delving into this issue, this study aims to contribute valuable insights to inform policies and strategies that enhance e-waste recycling efforts among higher learning institution students. Keywords: Attitudes, e-waste, higher institution, knowledge, practices, KAP theory, sustainability.