Abstract

In this study we explore the pressing issue of solid waste management in peri-urban communities, where urban expansion and rural traditions intersect. Focusing on Wang Taku Subdistrict in Nakhon Pathom Province, we employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys (n = 380) with qualitative interviews of local leaders and community workshops that represented 12 occupational groups. The findings reveal a consistently high level of waste-related issues, particularly in disposal inefficiency (= 4.22). Lack of waste separation ( = 4.10) resulted in an overall problem severity rated at = 3.69, SD = 0.49. While community interest in participating was notable (= 3.52), actual involvement in planning, monitoring and decision-making remained low, contributing to an overall moderate participation level ( = 2.52, SD = 0.25). In response, we introduced a multilateral waste management model grounded in joint decision-making approaches and reinforced by education focused on environmental awareness. The model emphasised source separation, stakeholder coordination and behavioural change through localised training and practical demonstrations. Post-intervention assessments showed statistically significant improvements in waste management knowledge (t = 18.71, p < 0.01), environmental awareness (t = 19.09, p < 0.01) and self-reported practices (t = 18.15, p < 0.01). These results highlight the model’s ability to promote sustainable behavioural change and community ownership, aligning effectively with Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production. The model presented here offers a realistic, replicable framework for addressing solid waste challenges in similarly situated communities, especially where institutional support is limited but local networks are strong.

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