A Qualitative Survey of Trash Disposal in Rural Honduran Communities

Abstract

Background: Honduras is one of the poorest nations in the western hemisphere. Traditional waste products have been organic and biodegradable. Due to Westernization, rural Honduran communities are facing an accumulation of non-biodegradable trash, which these communities lack the infrastructure to dispose of properly. The goal of our qualitative survey was to determine the attitudes of rural Honduran communities regarding their current waste, their methods of managing waste and what future steps may improve the situation. 

Methods: We interviewed 59 adult members of rural Honduras villages using an oral questionnaire consisting of 9 items. 

Results: The predominant methods of waste disposal were burning plastic (89%), burning paper (82%), selling cans (80%), burying glass (77%), and burying (38%) or collecting organic waste at a distance (52%). Community members considered the main negative impact of trash was illness (70%). Over 90% of individuals surveyed indicated they approved of changing the amount of trash in the community, but seemed unsure of how to implement the change. The two most recommended future steps included having the entire community help with trash cleanup (29%) and an organized cleanup committee (16%). 

Conclusion: By understanding current practices and attitudes, sustainable methods of improving the waste disposal situation can hopefully be implemented in future projects.