SUCCESS AND APPROACHES IN WASTE MANAGEMENT THROUGH THE CONCEPT OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY: CASE STUDY OF KOA KLANG COMMUNITY, KHLONG TOEI DISTRICT

Abstract

      This research aims to study the current situation and processes of municipal solid waste management through the concept of circular economy, and to identify the key success factors in solid waste management through the concept of circular economy.
A qualitative research methodology was used, collecting data from documents related to the concepts and theories of circular economy-based waste management, as well as field data obtained through in-depth interviews with key local informants. The findings revealed that the solid waste management process of Koh Klang community exemplifies a successful model resulting from the integration and collaboration among all sectors

        The community emphasizes self-management throughout the waste management chain, from source to the final result, through the establishment of a model learning center for integrated waste management. In addition, a waste separation system and circular economy mechanisms have been implemented to support waste transformation, recycling, and value addition, thereby generating income and welfare to the community. This approach has significantly reduced the amount of waste sent for external disposal. The study also found that the most crucial success factors is the strong leadership of community leaders and continuous participation of community members, which fostered a self-reliant economic mechanism through waste management, along with effective policy support from both public and private sectors.