A Descriptive Study on the Perceptions of Students from the University of the Philippines Manila, College of Arts and Sciences towards Littering Behavior

Abstract

Littering is a prevalent problem in the Philippines. It harms our environment which in turn affects us all negatively. It is for this reason that due attention must be given to the littering problem. This study aimed to evaluate the littering perceptions and behavior in the local setting, by the identification and comparison of sex-related general attitude towards littering, determination of the most common type, location, and cause of litter, evaluation of the current surroundings in terms of the amount of litter present, and whether littering behavior is predominantly deliberate or accidental. Furthermore, the study also aimed to identity' the age group most responsible for creating litter, to determine the top reasons for littering, to determine the relationship between sex and littering tendencies, and to cite possible litter prevention strategies. A survey was conducted among 258 students of equal male to female proportion from the College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila. Data gathered was analyzed using Frequencies and independent sample t-tests. Results showed that neither gender nor age group had any relationship to littering behavior, and the sample showed low littering tendency. Respondents believed that littering is more rampant nowadays than in the past, and that plastic bags were the most common type of litter found especially in the city sidewalks. Also, deliberate type of littering was predominantly observed with greatest tendency when one was walking. Major reasons for littering were “They don’t think that one piece of litter matters” followed by “They don’t care,” and “The surrounding is highly littered already.” Littering prevention strategies which found greatest support were the increase of the number of trash cans in public places, and public advertisements on the consequences of littering. Combination of fines and community service as punishment for littering was also supported.