Community Participation in Buddhist-Based Waste Management by the Nong Yaeng Subdistrict Municipality, San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research article aims to: (1) examine the level of public participation in waste management; (2) compare levels of participation in waste management across different personal factors; and (3) propose strategies to enhance public participation in waste management based on the concept of Buddhist-oriented waste management, applying the Seven Principles of Non-decline (Aparihaniya-dhamma) to promote environmental sustainability and strengthen community consciousness. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The quantitative data were collected from a sample of 377 residents in the Nong Yaeng Municipality using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression analysis. The qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with nine key informants and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The findings revealed that: (1) the overall level of public participation was high, with the highest participation found in the aspect of shared benefits, reflecting public awareness of mutual rights, transparency in governance, and efforts to strengthen community engagement. Although operational participation was also high, limitations were found in terms of motivation and convenience in actual implementation. (2) Comparison of participation levels across personal factors such as gender, age, education, occupation, and income showed no statistically significant differences, indicating equal access to participatory activities and a shared environmental awareness across the community. (3) The proposed strategies for enhancing participation include organizing regular public hearings, utilizing modern communication technologies, conducting educational programs on waste segregation and reduction, and providing motivational incentives through rewards. These should be implemented alongside the development of effective waste collection and hazardous waste management systems, and the promotion of recycling markets. The conceptual framework should be grounded in the Seven Principles of Non-decline, which include: regular community meetings, unity and harmony, refraining from arbitrary legislation, respect for elders and virtuous individuals, protection of women and children, and preservation of the Buddhist faith. These principles serve to foster a morally grounded, cooperative, and sustainable approach to waste management within the community.