Predicting the Waste Separation Intention and Behaviour Among the Malaysian Households

With the growing economy and society, as well as the massive expansion of the urban population and industrialisation, household waste production is continuously growing, posing a risk to the environment, the atmosphere, and household health and well-being. Thus, waste separation behaviour is critical in resolving the environmental situation of municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal separation. Besides that, most research has explored MSW classification from the household perspective, and very few have identified the waste separation intentions and behaviours of younger generations, particularly students. This current study aims to examine the influencing factors of waste separation intention behaviour from students’ perspectives. The Theory of Planned Behaviour served as the footing for the current work. Cross-sectional data were gathered from 350 respondents using an online survey. Data were analysed using a second-generation statistical analysis of partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The analysis confirms that attitude towards waste separation, subjective norm and perceived behaviour control influence positively and significantly waste separation intention that influences waste separation behaviour. The study’s findings are significant for the educational institution because they lead to a more tailored waste separation programme that aligns with Malaysia’s goal of becoming a sustainable developing country by identifying the factors influencing trash separation intention. The study reported the discussion, implications, limitations and future research opportunities at the end.