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Sustainable Waste Management as a Determinant of Quality of Life in Croatian Island Communities

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  • Antonio Dekanić

    (Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia)

  • Zoran Ježić

    (Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of sustainable waste management on the quality of life of the inhabitants of Croatian island communities, focusing on how waste management practices contribute to sustainable tourism development. This study aims to provide policymakers and local stakeholders with insights into the implementation of effective waste management strategies that improve environmental protection and the well-being of residents. This research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting sustainable waste management in island communities, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by encouraging waste reduction and recycling, and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). This study uses a survey-based quantitative research method, collecting data from 585 residents of the Kvarner islands using a structured questionnaire. The hypotheses are tested, and the relationships between waste management practices, quality of life, and sustainable tourism development are looked at using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). This study concludes that sustainable waste management, driven by the active participation of residents in waste separation and recycling, significantly increases the quality of life of residents and supports the sustainable development of tourism on the Kvarner islands. This study concludes that effective waste management supported by community participation is crucial for improving the quality of life of residents and promoting sustainable tourism on the Croatian islands. It emphasizes that integrating sustainable waste management practices into tourism development policies can conserve environmental resources and ensure the long-term well-being of communities.

Suggested Citation

  • Antonio Dekanić & Zoran Ježić, 2025. "Sustainable Waste Management as a Determinant of Quality of Life in Croatian Island Communities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-22, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:8:p:3490-:d:1634197
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Davor Mance & Siniša Vilke & Borna Debelić, 2020. "Sustainable Governance of Coastal Areas and Tourism Impact on Waste Production: Panel Analysis of Croatian Municipalities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(18), pages 1-16, September.
    3. Laura Recuero Virto, 2018. "A preliminary assessment of the indicators for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development”," Policy Papers 2018.03, FAERE - French Association of Environmental and Resource Economists.
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