Conference on Environmental Science and Technology

This study investigates public awareness of solid waste disposal and its environmental and health impacts in the Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Solid waste generation in the governorate has risen due to rapid urbanization and population growth, overwhelming waste treatment facilities and causing environmental and health risks. The research involved 500 households chosen randomly, and the data was collected through structured interviews and questionnaires. The research examined the awareness of the participants on waste management, environmental pollution, and health risks of improper waste disposal. The findings indicate that the majority of respondents (92%) had no knowledge about waste management, and only a small percentage had general knowledge about waste hazards and environmental pollution. There were gender disparities, with men slightly more knowledgeable than women. Public awareness campaigns are needed, according to the research, to expand knowledge and encourage sustainable waste management in the Duhok Governorate. Bridging this knowledge gap is necessary to mitigate the environmental and public health risks of unsanitary waste disposal.