Factors and Components Affecting Waste Separation Behaviors from The Source in Iran (Rapid Literature Review)

Authors

  • Seyed Saeed Mazloumi Mahmoud Abad Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Research Center for Social Factors Affecting Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
  • Mohammadreza Rajabalipour Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
  • Masoumeh Alidosti Department of Public Health, School of Health, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
  • Ali Asghar Ebrahimi Environmental science and technology research center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
  • Aazam Abbasi Environmental science and technology research center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18502/jehsd.v11i3.22835

Keywords:

Waste Segregation/Separation, Recycling, Waste Separation Behavior, Environmental Health, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: Increasing waste generation and inadequate management pose major environmental and public health challenges. Source separation is an effective strategy for reducing these impacts and improving resource recovery. this rapid review synthesized recent studies to identify the behavioral, educational, and environmental factors influencing waste separation behavior in Iran.

Methods: English- and Persian-language studies published within the last five years were identified through Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct using keywords including “source separation” AND “Iran.” Following the PRISMA framework, 1,113 records were screened through a five-stage selection process. Study quality was assessed using a modified Strengthening the Reporting of STROBE of Epidemiology checklist, and 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and quantitatively analyzed to summarize study characteristics and determinants of waste separation behavior.

Results: Among the 22 included studies, knowledge and awareness were the most frequently reported determinants (18 studies), followed by attitudes (16) and perceived behavioral control or subjective norms (15). Educational (6) and environmental (5) factors were also influential. The widespread application of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) models highlights the importance of cognitive and psychosocial factors. Individual beliefs, institutional support, social influences, access to facilities, and community-based education were associated with greater participation in source separation.

Conclusion: Knowledge and attitudes were the strongest determinants of waste separation behavior in Iran. TPB-based educational interventions, integrated with supportive environmental and policy measures, may enhance public participation, increase awareness, and improve source separation practices across communities.

Published

2026-09-28

Issue

Volume (11) issue (3)

Section

Articles