ANNOUNCEMENTS
Despite the preventable nature of the problem of solid waste, it continues to be a growing matter of concern for India. Even though Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016 made it mandatory for households to practice segregation of waste at source, only a few areas have been able to implement at source segregation by households effectively. There appears to be a gap in the system, preventing the rules formulated at the city level from translating into proper waste management practices being followed at the household level. Given that the problem of waste segregation is that of collective action, this study focused on the role of society leaders in the urban household waste management chain with the goal of understanding the role of society leaders’ actions in improving the overall level of waste segregation achieved within the society, in compliance with SWM Rules, 2016. The study looks at the issue at a more aggregate level than individual decision-making in order to shed some light on how to align individual and collective interests. A primary survey of office bearers of more than hundred resident welfare associations in Delhi -NCR was carried out in early 2020 using stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression analysis reveals that actions by leaders have had a significant effect on the level of waste segregation that has been achieved by the society. Further, opportunities and challenges have been identified for ensuring that full advantage of the role of society leaders’ actions in ensuring compliance to SWM Rules, 2016 is taken. It is suggested that RWA leaders can achieve more compliance by making SWM a priority and integrating garbage collectors in the process. Further, urban local bodies should improve training facilities for the RWA leaders and have clear communication to ensure greater compliance.
