Waste Sorting Programmes Among Senior High School Students in Johannesburg: Quantifiable Reductions and Recycling Rates

Waste management in South Africa faces significant challenges, including inadequate waste sorting practices among school students. The study employed a comparative design, analysing data from three randomly selected senior high schools with varying levels of waste management education. Quantitative methods were used for data analysis. Senior high school students demonstrated significant improvement in understanding and practice of waste sorting after the programme implementation, with a 45% reduction in overall waste production and an average recycling rate increase to 20%. The study confirms that targeted educational interventions can lead to substantial improvements in waste management practices among young individuals. Schools should continue to implement comprehensive waste sorting programmes, incorporating regular assessments and community engagement initiatives to sustain positive outcomes. Waste Sorting, Senior High School Students, Johannesburg, Recycling Rates, Waste Production Reduction