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Investigating the Predictive Factors Affecting Waste Separation Behavior in Northern Iran: A Study Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)
Elham Falahati Naghibi , Neda Ahmadzadeh Tori , Hamid Sharif-Nia , Fatemeh Soltani , Kimia Palouch , Zahra Abbaszadeh , Aram Tirgar , Mohammad Shirmardi *
Abstract:   (176 Views)
Background and Objective: Source separation is the most critical stage in the waste management hierarchy and requires a thorough understanding of the factors influencing citizens' behavior. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of waste separation behavior among residents of Babol city based on the Theory of Planned Behavior.

Materials and Methods: This cross sectional analytical study was conducted in 2024–2025 on 475 citizens of Babol. Convenience sampling was used. Data were collected using a standardized TPB based questionnaire and analyzed with JASP software using simple and multiple linear regression.

Results: The final model explained 56.4% of the variance in waste separation behavior. Behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control were the strongest predictors, such that for every one‑unit increase in these variables, the behavior increased on average by 0.39 and 0.22 units, respectively. Attitude (β=0.09) and perceived policy effectiveness (β=0.13) also had significant contributions (p < 0.05). Among the demographic variables, only education level showed a significant relationship with the behavior (p <0.05).

Conclusion: The findings indicated that focusing on strengthening behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control through education and providing necessary infrastructure, along with attention to the effective role of policies and education level, can guide the design of effective interventions to improve waste separation behavior in Babol city.
 
Keywords: Waste Management, Theory of Planned Behavior, Behavioral Intention, Iran
     
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Health Education & Health Promotion
Received: 2025/12/24 | Accepted: 2026/05/10
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