The efficacy of the knowledge management program combined on household waste management of people in Krajai Subdistrict, Patio District, Yasothon Province

Abstract

            The increasing volume of household waste remains a critical environmental issue, especially in rural communities with limited access to structured waste management systems. This quasi-experimental study evaluated the effectiveness of a knowledge management (KM) program in enhancing household waste management in Krajai Subdistrict, Patio District, Yasothon Province, Thailand. A total of 78 participants were equally assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The KM intervention, conducted over eight weeks, comprised structured knowledge transfer sessions, hands-on demonstrations, distribution of household organic waste bins, and continuous follow-up reinforced with performance-based incentives. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing knowledge and behavior regarding organic waste, along with daily waste volume records. Statistical analyses were performed using Paired Samples t-tests and Independent Samples t-tests with a significance level of p < 0.05.

            The findings indicated no significant difference in baseline knowledge between the two groups (p = 0.869). However, post-intervention, the experimental group exhibited a statistically significant improvement in both knowledge and behavior scores compared to the control group (p < 0.001) and to their own baseline scores (p < 0.001). Notably, a critical component contributing to the program’s success was the interactive demonstration and practice activity, during which participants constructed and actively used organic waste bins. This hands-on engagement, supplemented by ongoing coaching and recognition incentives, was instrumental in translating knowledge into consistent behavioral change. Moreover, 100% of the experimental group adopted organic waste bins and achieved a substantial reduction in daily waste generation.

            This study provides empirical support for the role of community-based KM processes grounded in experiential learning, social reinforcement, and contextual relevance in fostering sustainable waste management behaviors. The intervention model presented here offers a scalable and adaptable framework for similar low-resource settings aiming to promote environmental responsibility at the household level.

Keywords: Knowledge management, Household Waste Management, Organic waste bin