A Critical Look at Sustainable Waste Management Practices Through the Protection Motivation Theory

Abstract

This study examined the influence of waste literacy and cognitive factors from the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) on sustainable waste management (SWM) behaviours among residents in the Accra Metropolis, Ghana. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 395 households selected through multistage sampling. Key constructs assessed included threat appraisal (perceived severity and vulnerability), coping appraisal (self-efficacy and response efficacy), and ownership appraisal. The findings revealed that while 81% of respondents were aware of sustainable waste management practices, such as reuse (38%) and recycling (29%), actual engagement in these practices was lower. Plastic and rubber waste (78%) were the most commonly generated waste types, and 90% of households did not separate their waste before disposal. Waste literacy levels were low, with 46% of respondents understanding it as "knowledge of waste management practices. The study also identified key challenges to sustainable waste management, including a lack of education on proper waste practices, social and cultural norms and financial constraints. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can foster a cleaner and healthier environment in the Accra Metropolis. The findings also demonstrated that higher threat appraisal—where residents recognised the severe risks of poor waste management—did not motivate proactive waste-reduction efforts. Also, coping appraisal, which reflects individuals’ confidence in managing waste, was weak, indicating a need for capacity-building initiatives. Ownership appraisal revealed a high sense of responsibility among residents, but this did not always translate into effective action due to practical challenges. The study recommends enhancing public waste literacy, improving waste management infrastructure, and implementing communitybased programs to encourage proper waste practices.