Citizens attitudes and participation in solid waste management : a case of Gjakova, Kosovo

Abstract

In the last decade, solid waste management has been one of the most problematic and demanding issues addressed in both local, national and international efforts. With a growth in population and income waste production is predicted to continually increase. Due to improper solid waste management practices, there have been negative effects on the health of citizens in Kosovo through outbreaks of diseases and visible changes in the surroundings. This study made use of semi-structured interviews, individual interviews and focus group discussions to collect the primary data. Recent literature on solid waste management and environmental studies have been employed in the interpretation of the data. It recommends that there is an evident need for the city of Gjakova to empower solid waste facilities through law by prescribing fines and granting incentives. The study suggests that further studies pursuing the field of solid waste management may particularly focus on the subject of the effectiveness of private corporations versus state-controlled efforts for solid waste management.