Household Solid Waste Management and Environmental Perception in Urban Areas of Ecuador

Solid waste management represents one of the main environmental and urban challenges in Ecuador due to population growth, urban expansion, and increasing household consumption. The aim of this study was to analyze household solid waste generation, waste handling and disposal practices, as well as residents’ perceptions and levels of environmental awareness in an urban sector of Ecuador. The research was conducted using a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach through the application of structured surveys to randomly selected households. The results showed that organic waste constituted the largest proportion of daily generated waste, followed by plastic, paper, and cardboard. In addition, households with a greater number of members generated larger amounts of solid waste. Although most participants recognized the negative effects of improper waste disposal on the environment and public health, limited practices of waste separation and recycling were identified among households. The study also found that educational level positively influenced environmental attitudes and the adoption of sustainable practices. The findings suggest the need to strengthen environmental education, improve municipal waste collection systems, and promote community recycling programs in order to advance toward integrated and sustainable solid waste management in Ecuador. Effective collaboration between local authorities and citizens is essential to reduce environmental pollution, improve urban living conditions, and encourage long-term sustainability practices within communities.