Background:
Littering poses significant threats to the environment and public health, degrading communities and leading to pollution, contamination of water sources, and the spread of diseases. Addressing littering behavior, particularly among children and parents in Bangladesh, is essential for creating a clean and sustainable environment. Despite some awareness of waste management, misconceptions and indifference persist, hindering progress. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of interventions targeted at reducing littering behaviors and promoting recycling.
Methodology: This study utilizes a randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 180 schools and 5,400 individuals, including both students and their guardians. The intervention will include educational and motivational curricula adapted from successful programs in other countries. Participants will be divided into three groups: a self-help group receiving IVR lessons, an assisted group receiving additional bi-weekly tutor calls, and a control group with no specific intervention. The intervention includes watching thought-provoking videos, interactive quizzes, public pledges, and the provision of designated buckets for litter disposal. Monthly home visits will assess the degree of littering and cleanliness. Data will be collected through baseline and endline surveys to evaluate the impact of the interventions.
Objectives:
- Assess the impact of the intervention on curbing littering and promoting recycling.
- Promote behavior change among children and their families by raising awareness of the harmful effects of littering on the environment and health.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of student-focused interventions in influencing parental behavior.
- Develop comprehensive and sustainable interventions to curb littering behavior.
Timeline:
- Piloting & Field Preparation: March 2024
- Baseline Survey: May 2024
- Randomization & Intervention: July 2024
- Verification & Endline Survey: October – November 2024
Specific Role of GDRI:
- Conducting surveys and data collection
- Recruiting content creators and tutors
- Subcontracting the technology service provider
- Providing program-specific assistance and support
- Managing data throughout the study
- Ensuring proper implementation of interventions
Researchers:
- Asad Islam,PhD (PI)
- Maruf Ahmed (CoPI)
- Shaikh Eskander (CoPI)
