RESEARCH PROPOSAL

Impact of Solid Waste Management on Sustainable Development with the

Mediating Roles of Environmental Factors and Digitalization

                                       

                               

Name:
Muhammad Ahsan Iqbal
ID: 16299-D
Ph.D (Management Sciences) Scholar

Supervisor:
Dr. Kashif Saleem
Co-Supervisor:
Dr. Mahad Jahangir

Management Science Department

Qurtuba University of Science and Information Technology
Dera Ismail Khan
 Research Proposal Certificate by Supervisor

Impact of Solid Waste Management on Sustainable

Development with the Mediating Roles of Environmental
Factors and Digitalization
Submitted by

Muhammad Ahsan Iqbal ID: 16299-D

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Supervisor: _______________
Dr. Kashif Saleem

Co-Supervisor: _______________
Dr. Mahad Jahangir
 3

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Format of Thesis in APA

Cover and Title Page
Certificate from Supervisor
Table of Contents
Language & Grammar
Problem Statement
Purpose/ Objective of the
Theoretical Framework
Research
Significance of the Study
Delimitations / Limitations
Definition of Terms
Literature Review
Research Design
Sampling
Variables
Methods of Data Collection
References in APA Format
Appendices

I ___ Muhammad Ahsan Iqbal hereby, declare that I have prepared the attached Research
Proposal under the guidelines of a prescribed format of Qurtuba University of Science & IT.
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Table of Content
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1: Introduction...............................................................................................................................1
1.1: Background of Study.......................................................................................................1
1.2: Problem Statement..........................................................................................................4
1.3: Research Questions:........................................................................................................4
1.4: Objectives of Study.........................................................................................................4
1.5: Significance of Study......................................................................................................5
1.6: Research Gap...................................................................................................................5
2: Literature Review......................................................................................................................7
2.1: Solid Waste Management:...............................................................................................8
2.2: Sustainable Development..............................................................................................10
2.3: Environmental Factors..................................................................................................13
2.4: Digitalization.................................................................................................................15
2.5: Theoretical Background................................................................................................16
2.6: Demographic Attributes................................................................................................17
2.7 Theoretical Framework..................................................................................................18
2.8: Research Hypothesis.....................................................................................................19
3: Research Methodology............................................................................................................20
3.1 Research Philosophy......................................................................................................20
3.2 Research Design.............................................................................................................20
3.3 Survey Approach............................................................................................................20
3.4 Population of the Study..................................................................................................21
3.5 Sample of the Study........................................................................................................21
3.6 Data Collection Methods................................................................................................21
3.7 Data Analysis Methods...................................................................................................21
3.8 Questionnaire Design.....................................................................................................22
3.9 Research Variables.........................................................................................................22
3.10: Ethical Issues Consideration.......................................................................................23
References.....................................................................................................................................24
Questionnaire...............................................................................................................................30
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1: Introduction

1.1: Background of Study

In an age where industrialization is so important, waste not only causes serious

environmental problems, but also affects human health. Many research scholars have
described waste in different ways. According to the Basu (2009), waste is a material that
cannot be used by the manufacturer. Waste is a by-product of human activity. Increasing the
number and complexity of waste is another environmental hazard for cities. As per Soltani et
al., (2015), 1.3 billion tons of wastes are generated. Nagar et al., (2017), also state that cities
and communities are often overwhelmed by the rate of waste generation, and waste in
developing countries isn’t managed properly.

Due to non-implementation of practical concepts of municipal waste management,

proper disposal of waste is becoming a growing problem in cities around the world, which
not only adversely affecting the environment and general living conditions of the region but
also creating obstacles in provision of better health to general public. Rapid and vast
production of waste occurs because of non-adoption of sustainable waste management
practices by the households and it’s mainly due to lack of awareness and civic sense (Das,
Kumar & Bhattacharya 2019)

Solid waste management has become a major economic, environmental and critical
issue worldwide due to huge population growth and unawareness related to methodology of
waste disposal. Solid Waste Management has already emerged as significant and alarming
issue for various authorities (Local Governments). Industrialization, and especially the
rapidly emerging economies, as well as the alarming increase in population, has generated
waste manifolds. Paradigm shift in lifestyles, contraction of rural areas and expansion of
urban areas are also contributing in enhancement of waste generation. It is worth mentioning
here that above concept was also supported by (Akmal & Jamil 2021). Marshall &
Farahbakhsh (2013) stated that as solid waste management is a very important and
considerable issue and it is also a major challenge toward the achievement of a goal of
sustainable development of developing countries such as Pakistan, which can only be
addressed by implementing solid waste management on practical basis. Insufficient
resources, lack of solid waste management planning, non-availability of financial support and
weak institutional capacity of municipalities are the major issues encountered by
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municipalities. Furthermore, inadequate facilities for collection of waste, transportation in an

inappropriate manner, treatment and disposal of waste in open dump form, limited technical
capacity and lack of public awareness about trash disposal makes waste management difficult
for local governments’ departments to manage as well as disposed-off solid waste.
Unplanned waste management prompts waste spreading along the side of the road, seepage,
and careless unloading, all of which represent a genuine danger to the climate and wellbeing
and usually causes metropolitan floods etc.

Anand (2010) explained that for the past few decades, Solid waste (SW) has turned
into a significant and adverse result of development. Specifically Solid waste (SW) affects to
a great extent the natural environment, and represents a genuine danger in accomplishing the
goal of Sound Environmental Development or sustainable development. Proper management
of solid waste is one of the most important requirements in the present time and it has not
only played an important role in the development process but has also played a key role in
building a healthy society.

The increasing rate of solid waste is a threat to the environment, and Pakistan may
serve as an example of this problem due to new and advance methods implemented as part of
the government's major development projects. In recent years, a massive amount of solid
waste has been generated, and it’s all due to worse behavior of consumers. In light of
National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP), in Pakistan, solid waste management has been
identified as a critical problem for sustainable environmental progress (Das et, al 2019)

Thus, keeping in view the consideration of sound environmental development or

sustainable development in Pakistan, it is vital to survey the effect of development project on
the climate, particularly in perspective of generation of solid waste, as it is the first and the
main result of the development (Akmal & Jamil 2021)

The comprehensive definition of digitalization includes "increasing the adoption or

use of digital or computer technology by an organization, industry, country, etc." (Sarc et al.,
2019). According to Schumacher et al., (2016) digitalization depicts the social ramifications
of enhanced assistance of computer, provision of new platforms for media and
communication regarding growth of economy, society and culture and it reveals that it is
affecting all parts of human life. In perspective of Solid Waste Management and
sustainability of resources, digitalization improves the quality which results in increased
performance of an organization. Moreover due to digitalization, tasks can be accomplished
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quite easily. As far as practical implementation is concerned, few of the effective tools of
digitalization in SWM are vehicle tracking system, weigh bridging system, auto alarming of
dust bins, millage meters etc.

Due to globalization, in current years various new techniques for management of

waste have arisen that are encapsulated in and empowered by computerized innovations like
waste treatment based on picture acknowledgment and machine information examination
(Sarc et al., 2019) or on the other hand nearby waste partition through container coordinated
material identification sensors (Borchard et al., 2021).

Nanda and Berruti (2021) stated that Progress in the field of waste management over
the past decade has turned into a straightforward way of collecting unsorted waste and
transferring it to a land fills through adoption of systematic, integrated framework. Decision
making nowadays, takes into consideration an encompassing approach focusing the natural,
social, specialized and financial perspectives of the framework. The key drivers of solid
waste management toward updated integrated waste management world view within
the industrialized world are health of public, environment, scarcity of resources, climate
change and awareness level of public.

A major cause of environmental pollution is the alarming increase in the average rate
of waste production which has increased from 1.896 kg / house / day to 4.29 kg / house / day.
Although the waste collection system is inadequate due to unavailability of resources, but
despite of this the average garbage collection rate in Pakistan's public sector is 50%. Open
dumping is the most common practice and there is no efficient system for disposal of waste in
an environment friendly manner. The unavailability of dumping ground is not only an
environmental tragedy but also the presence of dumping sites in urban areas at some places is
extremely dangerous. It is also an unforgettable fact for health that dumping sites are often set
on fire to reduce the amount of waste that accumulates, which has detrimental effects not
only on health but also on the environment (Akmal & Jamil, 2021).

Public health and social life are generally affected by the spread of pests and diseases
due to non-management of solid waste. Municipalities are unable to manage solid waste due
to non-adoption of digital technology. In order to fill this gap the current study will examine
relationships between solid waste management towards the sustainable development in the
municipal sector of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Local Government Department, Pakistan with the
mediating role of environmental factor and digitalization.
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1.2: Problem Statement

One of the major ways to promote corporate governance within the municipal
sector is through an integrated waste management system that can ensure a truly healthy
society which is free from environmental pollution (Rigamonti et al., 2016).
As Waste management is one of the most important aspects of sustainable
development, owing to the fact that good waste management techniques contribute to
long-term sustainability (Lemine, 2012). In this context, most research focuses on the
country's major cities, including the provincial capitals of Lahore, Peshawar and
Karachi, while other cities are generally less focused. Therefore, research studies on this
topic are of utmost importance for the development of these areas. Thus, keeping these
facts in mind, it is necessary to conduct research in under – developed areas so that in-
depth analysis will help in proper identification of problems and subsequently their
solutions can be presented in an efficient manner (Ripa et al., 2017).
To address a crucial gap in the available literature, this research study will look
into the impact of solid waste management on the sustainable development specifically
in municipal sector of Local Government Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Moreover, it will examine the mediatory role of environmental factors and digitalization.
In view of above, the present research study will also examine / look at the core concept
of waste and waste management and also investigate what, where and how aspects of
waste management.

1.3: Research Questions:

i. Is there is any impact of Solid Waste Management on Sustainable Development?

ii. Does Digitalization mediating the role between Solid Waste Management and
Sustainable Development?
iii. Does an Environmental factor mediating the role between Solid Waste Management
and Sustainable Development?
iv. Is there any means difference in responses due to demographics?

1.4: Objectives of Study

Followings will be the four key objectives of study.

i. To examine the impact of Solid waste management system and Sustainable
development.
 5

ii. To investigate the mediating role of digitalization between solid waste management
system and sustainable development.
iii. To check the mediating role of environmental factors between solid waste
management system and sustainable development.
iv. To check the mean difference in responses of respondents due to demographics.

1.5: Significance of Study

This research will be useful in eliciting opinions from citizens/employees of public

sector Companies in the municipal sector on the subject variables in the model to find out the
better solution to the problems under investigation. The following three aspects will be
covered by this study's contribution. First one is related with the researcher’s knowledge
because from literature it is clarified that no comprehensive research on domestic basis
regarding behavioral and environmental issues in context of SWM and Sustainable
development keeping in view the mediating role of Digitalization and Environmental Factors
has been conducted in Pakistan. However there is also some research work exists on boosting
quality of the environment and responding to Pakistan's weak sewerage infrastructure.
Secondly, this study will focus on the seven Water and Sanitation Services Companies of
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan to obtain a greater understanding regarding awareness of
dynamics, economical, and ecological issues that impact health and the environment as a
whole. Third, current research will also present policy recommendations for reducing the
health risks associated with waste pollution and poor environmental quality.

Hence as a result, the current study will be used as a point of reference for testing,
surveillance, and evaluation in the future.

1.6: Research Gap

As there is non-existence of one-size-fits-all answer technique, that can be used in all

places and scenarios. To eliminate such problems, it's fine to pinpoint the investigations to
grassroots level. Discovering workable practices which include choosing and combining
diverse activities for greater waste management in developing and under-developed
countries, as well as recognizing how a certain decision option fits and affects in a local
context (Guerrero et al., 2013; Ripa et al., 2017).
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The core purpose of current research study is to investigate the impact of solid waste
management on the sustainable development specifically in municipal sector of Local
Government Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Moreover, it will examine the
mediatory role of environmental factor and digitalization. So this research will positively
contributes in bringing social change by developing practical models and will suggest how
we can manage efficiently and effectively solid waste because Management of Waste
Safeguards the environment by reducing pollution. Recycling process of waste assists in
earning cash, minimizes all forms of waste, and preserves the globe and resources (Majeed et
al., 2018).
Work has been done mostly in big cities because there are a number of studies
exists on Municipal Solid Waste  of the Lahore city (Batool & Ch, 2009) but there is no
comprehensive research of Pakistan's small & mid-size cities with their population varies
between 250,000 to 1 million (Jadoon et al., 2014). As a result, this research will assist in
understanding the current solid waste situation in small cities across the country i.e Dera
Ismail Khan and allied six divisional headquarters districts where Water and Sanitation
Services Companies exists. This can be especially helpful to executives and decision-makers
in finding long-term solutions and traversing the comprehensive strategic road map for better
management of Solid Waste which leads toward Sustainable Development of the country.

Hence the research on the subject like solid waste management is has been carried out
in very few numbers in municipal field generally in whole world and specifically in Pakistan
so the study is having a practical/geographical gap.

Researcher will use AMOS (SEM) software for analysis as there exists
methodological gap and this gap can be bridged with the help of structural equation
modeling.
As current research study will examine the impact of SWMS on SD, with mediated
role of environmental factors as suggested by (Khan et al., 2018) and also will cover the area
of digitalization suggested by (Muhammad et al., 2017), so the research is also having a
theoretical gap.
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2: Literature Review
Available literature on the topic has been discussed in this part in order to extract
study variables, various features, and mutual linkages that have been used to draw theoretical
framework. It explains solid waste management and other elements, as well as the research
issue in the field of solid waste management. It provides an overview of the impact of solid
waste management towards sustainable development along with the mediating role of the
environmental factors and digitalization.
Waste is a byproduct that is created due to human activities. It contains physically the
same substance that is capable of being used in useful products (White et al., 1995). Any
commodity or substance which is worthless to the manufacturer is likewise considered a
waste (Basu, 2009). He further added that waste is a material that people would like to
dispose-off and even people are willing to pay for its disposal. However, waste is an
inefficient product of human activity, with a steady increase in vital resources. Not only is it
harmful but it also causes environmental damage.
As a result, garbage comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and its classification can
be stated in a variety of ways. Physical form, tangible attributes, useable prospects,
compostable opportunities, origin of creation, and degree of impact on the environment are
all frequent factors considered in garbage categorization (Demirbas & Management, 2011).

While Tchobanoglous (1993) stated that Solid waste is a waste generated by human
activity in solid or semi-solid form and is disposed of non-environmentally as waste products.
In this regard (Beranek Jr, 1992) discussed that Solid wastes is a broad category of wastes
which is generated on large scale due to variety of activities such as farming sector,
gardening, and other mechanisms such as household and commercial operations. In
perspective of Solid wastes, he claimed that, it is distinct from waste water and gaseous waste
emissions. Solid wastes, in his opinion, are any wastes that people typically take into account
suitable for disposal on land. Basu (2009) in this context added that, Waste are thrown away
by the public generally as a results of on routine basis utilization of commodities , certain bio
hazardous waste, electrical garbage, and hazardous materials all are the examples of solid
waste.

Demirbas and Management (2011) stated in the perspective of Waste management

that Management of Waste is the process of acquiring, transferring, and treating wastes
before discarding of any remaining leftovers. In Perspective of Waste Management
 8

Tchobanoglous (1993) elucidated that control of efficient super handling and disposal in a
means of protecting the environment and society. Further more he concluded that, Solid
waste management is the concept which is practically implemented and utilized in order to
solve day-to-day waste management problems using various fields such as legal, financial,
management skills, knowledge and abilities which was generated due to improper
management of waste. Demirbas (2011) highlighted that the primary goal of waste
management is to maintain a safe, healthy, clean and friendly environment.

2.1: Solid Waste Management:

Environmental damage caused by the spread of garbage is the irreparable damage to

the environment caused by the destruction of natural resources such as soil, water and
airborne waste. In addition, environmental degradation can lead to the extinction of wildlife.
Environmental catastrophe poses a serious threat to aquatic and terrestrial animals. It is fact
that officially in 1998 by the United Nations, environmental degradation has been identified
as one of the top 10 global dangers. Moreover, Educationists have long called for the
implementation of environmentally friendly business practices to limit the harmful effects of
economic activity on the environment, and have endorsed a cleaner environment, not only for
the present century but for generations to come (Atiq & Karatas-Ozkan, 2013).

The term 'waste' explained that the non-essential, undesirable, or abandoned items

which having longer regarded valuable and are disposed by the owner. Waste refers to any
hard, fluid, chemical, or nuclear elements, as well as the ejection, destruction, and landfill of
anything that may pollute the friendly environment (Hossain et al., 2011). Keeping in view
the other perspective, the term "solid waste" refers to a pile of dirt and filth. It is the outcome
of consumers' use of things. Solid waste consists of all solid waste or rubbishes heaps that are
evident as a result of normal community activities (Gautam & Agrawal, 2021). Solid waste
was described in Agenda 21 of the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 (Joseph, 2014). It is very
important in the society that the responsibility of general treatment of solid waste falls under
the category of Municipal Corporation. In this perspective waste generated from households,
waste generated from commercial activities, waste spread through institutions, mud from
sweeping in the streets, the remaining filth from construction and burning, waste from
carcasses, garbage due to remnant, and waste generated from Industry, medical, and surgical.
Meals, vegetation and shrubs, stone, mud, bookish material and plastic, shredding skin,
leather, and other materials make up the majority of household garbage (Haque et al., 2021).
 9

Jin et al., (2006) stated that domestic solid trash (waste generated by homes),
commercial and industrial solid waste (waste produced by stores, motels, workplaces, and
hospitals), building and excavation wreckage, and ocean waste all fall under the category of
solid waste (Waste generated from the sea). Nonetheless, solid waste management is a
massive burden that falls primarily on the shoulders of local governments, and it necessitates
organizational competence as well as collaboration between the commercial and public
sectors (Michael et al., 2014). Due to the rapidly growing population, solid waste emissions
are also increasing which is not only a cause of environmental catastrophe but also requires
the management of disposal by using modern technologies which is based upon environment
friendly, must be economically affordable and with open heart, socially acceptable
(Achankeng, 2004).
Solid Waste Processing is an internationally recognized and environmentally friendly
incentive system consisting of a special setting to prevent open burning, dumping and
disposal of waste at sanitary landfill sites, recycling, reuse and prevention and emphasizes on
restraint. Open burning and dumping, on the other hand, are least preferred and less
favorable and actually not permitted, despite the fact that many developing countries do so
(Achankeng, 2004).
The following is a source-based classification of solid waste. According to Hui et al.,
(2006) the classified solid waste can be concluded as (1) domestic and civic waste: can be
described as waste generated in residential areas such as homes and flats. Food scraps,
vegetables, peeling materials, plastics, wood fragments, and clothing make up the garbage
and contributing in the category. Waste from destruction, renovation, and road work are also
included. (2) Commercial and institutional waste: It is trash from supermarkets, motels,
businesses, markets, and medical centers, among other places. Institutional waste includes
papers, food, glasses, metals, and other items that originate from a certain institution and (3)
Agricultural waste refers to any waste that originates from agricultural activity, such as
compost and other trash from farmers and chicken houses.
As stated by Hui et al (2006), He categorizes waste according to its type, such as
refuse, which includes all types of trash and junk. Garbage is that vary solid waste which
generate from for instance waste of paper, rubber and stationery. Garbage from leather
equipment’s and wooden waste or kitchen waste such as food waste, waste from
slaughterhouses, etc. On the basis of kinds, these are all different types of waste.
Solid Waste Management (SWM) is of utmost importance in the welfare of human
society in building an environmentally friendly society using modern technology which not
 10

only plays an important role in human health but also contributes to sustainable national
development (Desa et al., 2012). Therefore, a solid waste management approach that is
amicable with society and covered all aspects of nature and also meets the rules and
regulations and fulfill the criteria for waste disposal in an environmentally friendly manner is
a mandatory for any city on the planet and such concept never ever be ignorable for any
society because it leads toward sustainable development which play a supportive edge toward
better environment (Das et al., 2019).
The handling of solid waste is referred to as solid waste management which clarifies
the all road map which deals with how to disposed-off garbage efficiently and effective
generated society keeping in view the adoption of environment friendly methodologies.
Hence such management covers the aspects regarding planning of collection of garbage,
coordinating the available resource , supervising all process for accomplishment of goals of
sustainable development, regulating, and coordinating for the purpose of achieving a single
goal this  management of disposed-off garbage on digitalization based friendly environment
manners. Solid waste management, on the other hand, is a mechanism for reducing wastes,
mostly through source reduction, but also through adoption of techniques regarding recycling
and re-utilization of materials, as well as adoption of better methodologies upto final
disposal. It is the overall management of activities related to garbage collection, source
reduction, separation of garbage, its depot, transit, transmit, refining, rehabilitation, and
finally disposal of waste. It is a method of managing waste (collection of waste and
its transportation) at a low cost by focusing on waste reduction at the source, re-use and
recycling, and final disposal with the least amount of pollution in order to achieve long-term
environmental development which based upon digitalization and leads toward sustainability
(Tai et al., 2011).

2.2: Sustainable Development

Ignoring the great mission of sustainable development, non-disposal of waste in an

environmentally friendly manner has not only led to environmental degradation but also to
land pollution which includes groundwater degradation and soil contamination in particular.
Even due to this wastewater causes irreparable damage to human life and causes many
diseases (Visvanathan, 2003). In Kenya, in this regard a pilot study was done by Yabe et al.,
(2010) which discussed in detail that how environmental pollution directly impacts the public
health and having a link which needs to be considered in order to achieve the goals of
sustainable development by disposing of society garbage in larger public interest through
 11

adoption of digitized based concept of modern solid waste management. As a result of their
research study, it was found keeping in view the different tests of water and soil that  a
medical evaluation of children and teens living and attending school near the dumpsite
revealed a high frequency of disorders such as asthma, blood cell disorders, and elevated
blood lead levels.

Here in order to survive with globe and keep up the pace with the global trend and to
concentrate on the sustainable development in general larger public interest, the adoption of
an integrated and sustainable solid waste management system is so much essential which
must incorporating 3 R’s concept (reduce, reuse and recycle) technologies practically for
provision of clean and green friendly environment (Wilson et al., 2015). In this category,
Japan and South Korea are at the forefront of the race for the largest economies, which have
already begun work on a number of large-scale projects, including 3 R’s technologies to
dispose of waste in an environmentally friendly manner and generate electricity from it and
also has shown the courage to not only focus on "Zero Waste" and / or "Zero Land Filling"
(Zero Waste) but also to provide healthy employment opportunities in society (Shekdar,
2009).

According to Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995, the concept of waste

is defined as, “Any hard, fluid, chemical, or nuclear materials whose discharge, destruction,
or disposal could have a negative impact on the environment”. On the other hand
management of waste comprised of collection of waste from gross route level, its
transportation from initial point to dump site, treating or disposal of discarded materials and
substances in order to disposed-off garbage on environment friendly manners for
accomplishment of the goal of sustainable development (Unnisa & Rav, 2012).

Sustainable solid waste management is a prerequisite for sustainable environmental

management because the unsafe disposal of solid waste not only pollutes the environment but
also poses a threat to human health; leading society to deviate from sustainable development
is also left (Ashikuzzaman & Howlader, 2020).

The implications of inappropriate garbage disposal on health of society, the

environment, utilization of land, management of resources, and socioeconomics related
issues, are all addressed through sustainable solid waste management which also leads toward
the accomplishment of sustainable development (Marshall & Farahbakhsh 2013).
 12

Waste management based upon Sustainable practices focuses to lowers the

consumption of natural resources and also ensures that any materials obtained from nature
must be reused as many times as possible, and keen focus on keeps trash to a minimum as
possible through utilization of digital technology which provided the supportive edge in
achievement of goals of sustainable development. Sustainable solid waste management is a
more efficient and environmentally friendly method of dealing with the trash produced on a
daily basis. Despite the fact that the concept differs from country to country, there are a few
common elements. Primarily a sustainable waste management system is helpful in gradually
reducing waste creation. Second, before to dumping, created wastes must be segregated.
Before dumping, this separation should be done two times: first in the home on domestic
basis, then by the municipality. There are several kinds of strategies which are applied to
attain the objective of sustainable development regarding disposal of the wastes. In this
perspective the methodology of 3 R’s (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) technique should be
applied in order to disposed-off garbage as per standardized manners and environment
friendly manners. Furthermore, a sustainable waste management system must include
advanced digitalized base waste treatment plants, rules, and laws which benefits are awarded
to society in form of sustainable development and healthy environment (Shekdar, 2009).

The issues of Sustainable development concerns have piqued the interest of scholars,

policymakers, professionals and practitioners all across the world. Some many societies
including both developed and developing countries are affected by environmental
consequences of unsustainable activities. Manufacturing businesses and human activities are
thought to be causing environmental problems that cannot be handled exclusively by
technical means without socially and economically obligations from industries (Pawłowski,
2008).

The necessity to integrate and cover-up the social, economic, and environmental
components of sustainable development at the world stage level and results can be obtained
in the creation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a plan for development that
the international community could follow and measure for make clean and green
environment. In the midst of severe global issues, the sustainable developmental goals are 17
which are interrelated with socio-economic and environmental targets that all countries
involved are expected to attain up to by 2030 for a healthier and more sustainable future for
all (Raimi et al., 2019). All of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are
admirable socioeconomic and environmental goals that should be addressed at the
 13

organizational and national levels; however there are ten (10) components aspects
perspective of the Sustainable Development Goals that are pertinent to the long-term
management of solid wastes.

2.3: Environmental Factors

Environmental degradation is one of today's most pressing issues. The desire to

preserve our surrounding and the climate has gained significance above all other
considerations (Pitt et al., 2002). As a result, solid waste management is a difficult
undertaking for both developing and developed countries. However, one of the most pressing
modern environmental issues in metropolitan areas is the generation of municipal solid waste
(MSW) in large amount (Pattnaik & Reddy, 2010).
Urbanization and industrialization have resulted in a significant increase in solid
waste which has not only increased the environmental damage but also failed to ensure the
establishment of a healthy human society. Global warming, extinction of animals, imbalances
in the nutritional cycle, and hazardous waste using random methods are some of the major
environmental issues that pose a major obstacle to sustainable development and a truly clean
and green environment (Fatima et al., 2019). In a few big cities, the average rate of trash
creation from all types of municipally managed regions ranges from 1.896 kg/house/day to
4.29 kg/house/day. It represents a pattern of waste generation in which the city's population
as well as its social and economic development has increased exponentially. The following
graph shows daily and annual solid waste estimates, as well as the rate of waste generation in
each city. Solid garbage is primarily collected by municipal authorities in Pakistan, with
waste collection efficiencies ranging from 0% in low-income rural areas up to 90% in high-
income urban areas. Municipalities' solid trash collection rates range from 51 percent to 69
percent of total waste produced within their territory. However 31 percentage to 49
percentage leftover on road and also kept on streets corners, especially in open localities and
empty plots, these not only affecting the environment on regular basis even also the health of
society (Mahar et al., 2007).
Waste is any undesired output produced as a result of the use of a product, which
eventually not only become the cause of separation of pollution but also directly impact
on environment. Hence the appropriate management of garbage is critical to environmental
control. On the other perspective unhygienic environment not only affects human life badly
but can also lead to hazards problems such as accidents or fires, resulting in increased of
waste (Sushil, 1990).
 14

Solid waste management as a broad field has many practical issues to implement and
address the challenges it faces, as well as in various areas where further progress is needed.
The following factors hinder the implementation of Solid Waste Management System on a
practical basis and its development journey. Elements such as low level municipal services,
ineffective legislation in the delivery of municipal services, insufficient information to the
people, lack of qualified funds to effectively provide municipal services to the public.
Garbage generated in backward countries and its nature and structure which is effectively
disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner through solid waste management whereas
in rich countries this method is significantly different. The journey towards progress towards
environmental sustainability and the feature of making the environment conducive and
healthy also depends significantly on the economic situation of the country (Mohee et al.,
2015; Thi et al., 2015).
The developed world is able to tackle the problem of waste management with its
strong economy due to its tremendous consumption of resources and mass production. The
emerging world is facing challenges in implementing solid waste management due to limited
resources and lack of awareness (Abdrabo, 2008). While this is a fact in the provision of
municipal services, there is no single solution that can be implemented to all cities and all
situations for solid waste management (Sanhueza et al., 2009). In order to achieve sustainable
development and to identify solutions to the problems facing, it is necessary to select and
combine diverse activities for better waste management in low- and middle-income countries
so that the environment is truly clean and tidy. In order to thrive and ensure a healthy society,
it is important to understand how a decision-making power fits into the local context and its
implications (Majeed et al., 2018).
According to Sharma and Lewis (1994), the functional elements of Municipal Solid
Waste which play and important and vital role as safeguard for the environment as well as
depth knowledge is so much mandatory for implementation of effective solid waste
management are proper assessment regarding generation of solid waste, handling of waste
efficiently and effectively, collection of waste and its separation, processing and
transformation of solid wastes up to final disposal in friendly environmental manners.
Ongoing educational programs, indicators, and labeling based on the environmental
factors based on the digitization attributed to solid waste management aim to help the general
public understand their position in terms of waste management plan (Davidson, 2011). The
world's most important tool for solid waste management through awareness that can be done
in a variety of ways such as branding, labeling and wall chalking and the use of penaflexes to
 15

spread information about the effects of sustainable versus unsustainable waste management
on society. What can be done is to encourage people to participate in waste disposal and
recycling programs in an environmentally friendly way that not only encourages waste
disposal in accordance with the principles of hygiene but also educates the people. It also
raises awareness by using websites and other online resources (Davidson, 2011).

Thus in this era, the urban population of all cities is most affected by life-threatening
problems due to dozens of challenges in implementing solid waste management on a practical
basis. In addition, the standard of health is declining day by day due to environmental
pollution (SWM) indicated by (Lohani & Recycling, 1984).

2.4: Digitalization

E-Waste Management and E-Waste Garbage are two different concepts. Waste
management basically refers to technology to ensure a healthy society by disposing off waste
in an environment friendly way, while e-waste refers to those used in our daily lives,
especially in homes and businesses. Electronic waste generated from discarded electronic
devices and appliance residues, or other appliances such as televisions, cell phones,
refrigerators, computers, air conditioners, etc., that not only pollute the environment but also
affects the human health (Rode & Management, 2012).

Due to advances in high-speed science and technology and the short lifespan of
electronic products, the rapid growth rate of e-waste globally is four percent, which is an
indication of environmental pollution. Furthermore he stated that the constant influx of new
digital technologies into the market has forced municipal services companies and
industrialists to adapt digitally to perform their functions and duties. The importance of
digital transformation has grown to such an extent that it has become a strategic priority for
top management to build a healthy society and make the environment conducive to human
populations (Lundgren, 2012).

Digital-based waste management has traditionally been a physical and mechanical

field that focuses on collecting, sorting, and recycling or burning waste materials to ensure a
sustainable development journey. However, this is not the case which play a vital role in
waste management as the use of digital technologies has ensured the efficient delivery of
municipal services through smart bins (Bigbelly, 2020). Similarly Rubicon, (2020) stated that
the utilization of some other technologies like on-demand semi-autonomous trucks or
 16

artificial intelligence for material recognition and robotic automation also play an effective
role in accomplishment of the goals of sustainable management through better provision of
municipal services. In recent years, a number of new ways of managing waste have emerged,
embodied and enabled by digital technologies. In particular, image recognition and waste
detection sensors are exemplary. In addition, thanks to digital technology, the tracking system
of sanitation vehicles for the provision of municipal services has come into being with the
establishment of the Complaints Cell to eliminate environmental pollution (Waste
Management World, 2021; Green Creative, 2018).

Despite of these new use cases, little is known about the current state of digitization in
the waste management sector, which is defined as the process of converting physical or
analog processes, materials or objects to digital format using digital technologies is done.
Achieving a healthy society is not possible without the help of technology and its practical
application in this journey towards sustainable development (Fichman et al., 2014; Fitzgerald
et al., 2014).

Hence, Literature on the digitization of waste management has focused primarily on

digital technologies of the future, such as digital waste management projects in cities to
achieve sustainable development that will help make the environment more conducive and
environmentally friendly (Anagnostopoulos et al., 2017; Esmaeilian et al., 2018). Few
modern technology proposed in this regard are digital dispatching and routing as described by
Ramos et al., (2018), smart bin prototypes suggested by (Rovetta et al., 2009), or software-
enabled image classification for waste sorting as supported by (Wagland et al., 2012).

2.5: Theoretical Background

The expectation behind Waste Management is that waste management will prevent
waste from harming human health and the environment (Pongrácz et al., 2004).
The four components of the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) industry's in order to its
practical implications are recycling, decomposing, landfilling, and combustion. However
several types of waste like food waste, yard waste, residential source, from commercial
activities, and waste from institutional and industrial sources. It does not include all types of
hazardous waste, including industrial waste, agricultural waste, sewage sludge, and batteries
and medical waste which not only pollute the over-all environment but also create the
obstacles for accomplishment of the goals of sustainable development in perspective of
provision of municipal services (Lagbas-Aranas, 2015).
 17

Another Solid Waste Management support worth mentioning is the Republic Act No.
9003, popularly known as “The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000”, an Act
defining the appropriate institutional procedures and incentives for an ecological solid waste
management program, proclaiming certain acts outlawed and giving penalties, and allocating
cash for this and other reasons. This law mandates that all Local Government Units in the
country develop an ecological solid waste management program within their territories to
achieve those goals. Solid waste management is one of the world's most significant
development challenges. It's not because SWM has a negative influence on the environment
or human health; it's because bad SWM implementation creates deadlocks to the country's
progress toward Sustainable Development (SD). As a result, more extensive SWM strategies
based on digitalization inside development processes are required and same point was also
supported by Lagbas-Aranas, (2015).

2.6: Demographic Attributes

Serial List of Key Definition Code

Number Variables
1 On the basis of Term Qualification refers to the process of obtaining Q
Qualification an academic certificate and on the basis of
qualification survey approach will be adopted.
2 On the basis of Term designation refers to the process of D
Designation determining and securing a position of responsibility
and on the basis of designation survey approach will
be adopted.
3 On the basis of The competence or knowledge of several roles is E
Experience referred to as experience and on the basis of
experience survey approach will be adopted.
4 On the basis of It refers to either a person is female or male and on G
Gender the basis of gender survey approach will be adopted
 18

2.7 Theoretical Framework

Environmental Factors
1. Impact on Climate
Change
2. Impact on Health

Solid Waste 3.
4.
Impact on Water
Causing of Pollution Sustainable
Management Development
1. Waste Generation
1. SWOT Analysis
2. Waste Collection
2. Social Sustainability
3. Treatment/
3. Economic Sustainability
Separation
4. Human Sustainability
4. Disposal of Waste
5. Cultural sustainability
Digitalization 6. Corporate Sustainability

1. Technological
2. E Waste Management

Demographic Variables
 19

2.8: Research Hypotheses

Hypotheses Tools Code

There is significant impact of Solid waste management on Regression H1
Sustainable development
There is significant mediating role of digitalization between Mediation H2
solid waste management and sustainable development Analysis
There is significant mediating role of Environmental factor Mediation H3
among management of solid waste and sustainable Analysis
development
The relationship between Solid Waste Management and Parallel H4
Sustainable development is mediated significantly by Mediation
Digitalization and environmental factors Analysis
The respondents’ demographics i.e., qualification, serves as a ANOVA H5a
significant base for awareness regarding solid waste
management mechanism.
The respondents’ demographics i.e., designation, serves as a T-test H5b
significant base for awareness regarding solid waste
management mechanism.
The respondents’ demographics i.e., experience, serves as a ANOVA H5c
significant base for awareness regarding solid waste
management mechanism.
The respondents’ demographics i.e., gender, serves as a T-test H5d
significant base for awareness regarding solid waste
management mechanism.
 20

3: Research Methodology
The research methodology is important part of research studies without which
researchers may not be able to conduct their studies and to achieve their desired objectives. In
this connection, this chapter of research study outlines the entire methodology for the current
research proposal, which will be utilized for collection of data in order to respond the study's
research questions and make a conclusion more comprehensively and thoroughly.

3.1 Research Philosophy

The rationale for interacting with nature, sources, and the production of knowledge
based on specific theories is known as research philosophy. It is focused with the researcher's
beliefs about the occurrences and the processes for collecting, analyzing, and using data on
the phenomena (Schumacher et al., 2016). The current study comes under the umbrella of
Positivism. Positivism illustrates how different analytical techniques and methods can be
used to make predictions about current realities and inter-relationships (Mackenzie & Knipe,
2006). Thus, Positivism is a philosophical approach to research that will be used in current
research because it indicates that reality should exist and be measured and studied using
quantitative tools and methodologies to get thorough results.

3.2 Research Design

There are two types of study designs: descriptive and exploratory. When there is
enough data in the literature to plan every potential aspect of a research endeavor, including
topic formulation, data collecting, and data interpretation, a descriptive research design is
applied / used. It gives a systematic design of the full research process from start to finish.
The research design is the research approach created to meet the needs of the current research
project in terms of research methods and data processing tools. It depicts the full process,
including the research technique (survey), population and sample, data collection methods
(primary and secondary), primary data collection tools, the pilot study, scale reliability, and
data analysis.

3.3 Survey Approach

A survey is a data gathering method in which a representative sample of the whole

population is contacted rather than all members of the population since it is either
unnecessary or impossible to contact everyone. In this study, it was neither feasible nor
 21

necessary to contact every participant because the focus was on topic analysis rather than
case (individual) analysis. The survey approach has been utilized widely in the literature on
the issue for collecting first-hand (primary) data by employing questionnaires and interviews
on respondents' thoughts and opinions (Sekaran, 2009). Books on research methodology have
addressed the contents, processes, and characteristics of survey approaches used in the social
sciences in this perspective (Creswell et al., 2011).

3.4 Population of the Study

The population is a collection of all significant elements in the study that the
researchers are interested in and have attempted to draw findings from it (Levin, 1984). The
population of interest in the current study will made up of all the 6111 employees working in
the selected seven water and sanitation services companies of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
i.e. WSSC Peshawar, Mardan, Sawat, Kohat, Abbotabad, Bannu & D. I. Khan.

3.5 Sample of the Study

On the other hand, due to enormous population sizes, researchers are usually unable
to examine every individual in the community due to time and cost constraints. So by using
the table of Morgan and Krejcie (1970) total sample size will be 362 and researcher will use
stratified random sampling technique.

3.6 Data Collection Methods

The primary and secondary data collection is an important aspect of the research
process. After determining the data sources, the systematic collection of data must be of
adequate quality and quantity to undertake data analysis. If a researcher is unable to collect
adequate data, s/he will not be able to accomplish research goals and objectives in order to
provide trustworthy and methodical results. In this regard, the researcher will collect primary
data in the current study before evaluating it to match the research's needs and come to a
conclusion.

3.7 Data Analysis Methods

Following descriptive and inferential statistics tests or tools will be applied in order to
analyze the data. Descriptive Statistics Tests (Data normality, data reliability, mean, median
and mode) will be used. Inferential statistics Tests (Pearson product-moment correlation,
Simple Linear Regression, Mediation Analysis, SEM-Amos) will be used.
 22

3.8 Questionnaire Design

One of the most important aspects of research is measurement. According to the

literature, open and closed questions, are the two types of questions. When a researcher needs
more information, open inquiries, also known as open-ended questions, are valuable (Bond et
al., 2012). While the "closed ended questions" offer a variety of options from which
responders are urged to select the most appropriate. The replies can range from positive to
negative and can be three, five, seven, or more. In current study, the researcher will utilize an
adapted questionnaire by using a seven point Likert scale ranging from 1 for strongly
disagree to 7 for strongly agree.

3.9 Research Variables

S# Variable Definition Code

1 Solid Waste Solid waste management as per Mojtahedi et all (2021) may be SWM
Management described as the discipline concerned with the management of
solid waste generation, storage, collection, transportation,
processing, and disposal. Hence according to Vinti et all (2021)
Solid waste management refers to the controlled handling of waste
material from the point of generation to the recovery and disposal
procedures.
2 Sustainable Sustainability meaning the ability to keep something, an outcome, SD
Development or a process going for a long time (Basiago, 1998). According to
Stoddart (2011); Kuliga et al., (2019) and Mensah & Enu-Kwesi,
(2019), SD would simply mean “development that can be carried
on endlessly or for a set period of time’’. Schaefer and Crane
(2005) define SD as development that satisfies the current
generation's needs without endangering future generations' ability
to meet their own.
3 Environmental In simplest words it can be defined as ‘‘Any abiotic or biotic EF
Factors component that effects living creatures is called an environmental
factor, ecological factor, or eco factor’’ (Linnerud et al., 2019).
Environmental pollution as a result of improper solid waste
management is a worldwide problem. The main waste treatment
and final disposal procedures, which are mostly apparent in low-
 23

income nations, are open dumping and open burning.

4 Digitalization “Digitalization” is defined as “an organization's, industry's, or Dig
country's adoption or increased usage of digital or computer
technology (Schumacher et al., 2016). As per (Schumacher et al.,
2016) Digitalization refers to the economic, social, and cultural
repercussions of increased computer assistance, new media, and
communication platforms and in context of its general implication
it expressed as All societal activities are linked; cultures are
connected; information is used to organize social life; and all areas
of existence are converged (connected life). Hence in SWM it
refers to E-base effective waste management system in order to
dispose-off waste for healthy environment.

3.10: Ethical Issues Consideration

The researcher will adhere to all national and international ethical standards during
the research procedure. The ethical assessment of a study is inextricably linked to the
researcher's principles and integrity. The most important factors in primary research are the
participants' willingness to participate, the privacy aspect, and their confidentiality. In this
regard, the respondents' (voluntary) participation in research projects is the most important
ethical aspect to be kept in mind. Similarly, the respondents' privacy is an important aspect of
the research study that ensures their autonomy. Confidentiality is also necessary in order to
keep the information about respondents private.
 24

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 29

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 30

Questionnaire
TOPIC
Impact of Solid Waste Management on Sustainable Development with the Mediating
Roles of Environmental Factors and Digitalization

Muhammad Ahsan Iqbal

Ph.D. (Management Studies) Scholar

Dear Respondent!
This questionnaire is purely for ‘Academic’ purposes therefore your cooperation will
help the ‘Student-Scholar’ to fulfill the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy
in Management Studies.

Personal Profile of the Respondent

1. Name of Company ______________ 2. Domicile _________________

3. Marital Status _____________ 4. Gender___________________
5. Qualification ______________ 6.Designation _______________
7. Experience ________________ 8.Age_____________________

Note. How far do you Agree/Disagree with the following Statements using 7-Point Scale?

7 Point Likert Scale is as follows:

1: Strongly Disagree, 2: Moderately Disagree, 3: Disagree, 4: Neutral, 5: Agree, 6:

Moderately Agree, 7: Strongly Agree
 31

Awareness and practice of solid waste management

M
programs SD MD D N A SA
A
(Cyerbol Sarbassov et al., 2019; Trondillo et al., 2018)
Did you ever attend any awareness Programme
AP1 conducted by local authority/school regarding 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
house hold waste management?
Do you know the principle of waste
AP2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
characterization and Minimization?
Do you know the effects of improper waste
AP3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
management?
Do you know the penalties for violation of solid
AP4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste management?
Are you willing to know about environmental
AP5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
issues and concerns?
AP6 Are you committed to minimize the waste? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
AP7 Do you use kitchen waste as compost? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Do you throw your solid waste outside your
AP8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
room or household?
Do you see garbage on roadside near your
AP9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
surroundings?
Solid waste disposal awareness programs are
AP10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
held by yours company.
Solid waste disposal awareness programs offer
AP11 a better quality of life for the disadvantaged 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
community.
There is satisfaction with the way in which solid
AP12 waste disposal awareness programs are being 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
implemented.
Solid waste disposal programs are addressing
AP13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
current mismanagement related challenges.
 32

Attitude towards solid waste management M M

SD D N A SA
(Trondillo et al., 2018) D A
Improper waste disposal is a threat to
AT1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
environment.
Waste segregation is beneficial to my society &
AT2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
environment.
Household waste management is the sole
AT3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
responsibility of my parents.
Waste management program should be
AT4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
spearheaded by the town administration.
Solid waste collection and disposal or
AT5 household waste disposal is the sole 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
responsibility of the society or local authorities.
I am also responsible for the generation of solid
AT6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste or household waste.
I also have a role to minimize the solid waste
AT7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
management.
Do you agree that communities have a full
AT8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
responsibility to proper waste disposal?
Do you agree that municipality has a full
AT9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
responsibility to proper waste disposal?

Status of solid waste management program M M

SD D N A SA
(Trondillo et al., 2018); Mgwebi, A. Z. (2013). D A
Waste materials are collected according to the
ST1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
schedule
Waste materials are collected during weekends
ST2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
and even during holidays
Solid waste designated area or material
ST3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
recovery facility is used in the community.
Waste materials are collected in designated
ST4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
area.
ST5 Solid waste collection and disposal or 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 33

household waste disposal is the sole

responsibility of the society or local authorities.
I am also responsible for the generation of solid
ST6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste or household waste.
I also have a role to minimize the solid waste
ST7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
management.
ST8 Household waste that is mostly being produced? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
ST9 Garden waste that is mostly being produced? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Waste from business that is mostly being
ST10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
produced?
Are there solid waste / recycling containers that
ST11 are provided by the Municipality or another 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
entity (private) available?
Is waste is transported to collection point from
ST12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
households?
Is waste Collected by municipalities being
ST13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
disposed from households?
More waste containers should be provided, the
ST14 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
SWM become well.
Do you think that due to Provision of incentives
ST15 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
to employees contribute a lot in effective SWM.
ST16 Dumpsite available to your company? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 34

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

(Asiri, 2017); Sola& Sunny (2019) M M

SD D N A SA
D A
SD1 Do you know about Sustainable development? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
SD2 Do you think sustainable development is
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
important for nation building?
SD3 Do you think solid waste management has
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
impact of sustainable development?
SD4 Do you think current waste management
techniques are adequate for sustainable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
development?
SD5 Do you believe that there should be
environment conservation for sustainable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
development?
SD6 Do you agree that every individual has a
responsibility to contribute to sustainable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
development?
SD7 Are you satisfied with the municipal council
waste collection process is positively effect 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
sustainable development?
SD8 Solid Waste Management is necessary for
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
sustainable development
SD9 Improving people’s health and opportunities for
a good life contribute to sustainable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
development
SD10 To achieve sustainable development, companies
must treat their employees, customers and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
suppliers in a fair way.
SD11 Sustainable development demands that we
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
humans reduce all sorts of waste.
SD12 For sustainable development, people need to be
educated in how to protect themselves against 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
natural disasters.
 35

SD13 I think that the government should make all its

decisions on the basis of sustainable 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
development.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTOR
(Asiri, 2017) M M
SD D N A SA
D A
Do you know about environment impact of
EF1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
solid waste?
EF2 Do you ever notice waste in the road, land or
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
and public area?
EF3 Do you ever notice waste in water recourses
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
such as the rivers, lakes sea etc..?
EF4 Do you ever notice burning waste in public
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
area?
EF5 Do you ever hear of health problems due to
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
solid waste?
EF6 I am concerned about environmental pollution
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
due to solid waste.
EF7 Government agencies & departments are
concerned about environmental pollution due to 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
solid waste.
EF8 Do you think most environmental issues would
be minimized if solid waste is properly 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
managed?
EF9 I think that people who pollute land, air or
water should pay for the damage they cause to 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
the environment
EF10 I often do things which are not good for my
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
health.
EF11 I pick up rubbish when I see it out in the
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
countryside or in public places.
EF12 I don’t think about whether things I do might
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
harm the natural environment
EF13 I always separate food waste before putting out 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 36

the rubish when I have the chance.

EF14 I do things to reduce waste (e.g., throwing away
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
less food and not wasting paper).
DIGITILZATION
(Borchard et al., 2021) M M
SD D N A SA
D A
Do you agree that new development and
DG1 digitization effect the solid waste management 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
positively?
Do you think digitalization increases the
DG2 service and product quality in reducing solid 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste?
Do you think digitalization Increase of process
DG3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
transparency?
Do you agree that digitalization improved
DG4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste recycling?
Digitalization provide aids in reduction of the
DG5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
firm's environmental impact
The subject of digitalization influences the
DG6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
overall waste management industry
Will you deal with the digitalization of the
DG7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste management industry in the future?
Does the subject of digitalization influence the
DG8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste management industry in general?
Does the subject of digitalization influence the
DG9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
waste management industry in your company?
Would you think that your company’s approach
DG10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
toward digitalization.
Does the management of your firm feel about
DG11 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
fully adoption of digitalization?
Would you think that your company’s due to
DG12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
digitalization avail opportunities.
DG13 Would you think that your company’s due to 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 37

digitalization minimizes the risk?