One CAPSU towards sustainable development goal 11: A start up to a more sustainable cities and communities

This research sought to critically appraise current waste management practices at Capiz State University Sigma Satellite College. The objectives included identifying the main sources and types of waste, assessing current management practices, and addressing challenges in effective waste handling. It also proposed strategies for waste reduction and recycling, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 on sustainable cities and communities. Data collection methods included waste audits and surveys conducted from August 8, 2022, to January 8, 2023. Waste audits involved sorting, weighing, and categorizing waste across campus areas, while surveys gathered information from students, faculty, and staff about waste sources, behaviors, and attitudes. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze trends, revealing classrooms as the primary waste sources, generating significant amounts of paper, plastic, and food waste. Other contributors included the canteen, restrooms, and offices. Current waste management practices involved segregation, recycling, composting, and landfill disposal, but challenges included low participation, limited recycling infrastructure, and inadequate funding. Food and plastic waste were identified as critical issues, requiring immediate attention. CAPSU Sigma Satellite College faces significant waste management challenges, primarily a lack of awareness and participation among its community members. Inadequate infrastructure, financial limitations, and restricted space further hinder effective waste handling. Addressing these issues requires improved education, enhanced infrastructure, diversified funding, optimized space utilization, and stronger collaboration with external partners. The study recommends targeted waste education and awareness campaigns, improved recycling infrastructure, and enhanced waste reduction initiatives. Addressing these challenges will promote campus sustainability, aligning with the global goals of SDG 11.