E-Waste Literacy: The Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of MSU-IIT Students Towards E-Waste Management

Abstract

E-waste management has been a challenge globally and has become a serious problem among developing nations. During the pandemic, the Philippines and other countries experienced a rise in information and communication technology usage, leading to an increased amount of obsolete electronic equipment. The absence of proper management of this waste therefore threatens the environment and human health. Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) is likewise dealing with the issues that call for immediate attention within the university. Thus, this study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) of e-waste management of students on campus. KAP surveys for the students, and key informant (KI) interviews of faculty and staff were the instruments for data collection. KAP data was collected using physical and online surveys. While KI interviews were conducted in-person. The results showed that the students across various colleges had a high level of knowledge (overall mean range of 3.58-4.16) specifically about the components of e-waste and its negative effects on human health and the environment. They also demonstrated a positive attitude (overall mean range of 3.88-4.40) toward learning and participating in any e-waste recycling and handling initiatives, and a positive perception (overall mean range of 3.73-3.95), emphasizing that institution has a responsibility to raise awareness and educate its constituents on proper e-waste management. Further, the study revealed that, although e-waste is condemned at the campus Supply Office, the process was deemed time-consuming, which ends up storing in different departments or offices. Hence, the institution should focus on improving its e-waste management system, wider dissemination of information, and implementation of further environmental education and initiatives such as e-waste recycling seminars, programs, and activities to achieve a safe educational environment.