Global Journal of Human Social Science, H: Interdisciplinary, Volume 23 Issue 5

© 2023 Global Journals Volume XXIII Issue V Version I Global Journal of Human Social Science - Year 2023 ( ) H 30 Unveiling the Impact of Solid Waste Management on Health and Poverty Alleviation in Dhaka City a) Methodology This study employed a mixed-method research desig n 8 , combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, to address the research question. It involved a cross-sectional survey conducted among 200 slum households in three areas of Dhaka. To address this, qualitative aspects were incorporated through 25 interviews including 5 expert interviews. The survey was conducted based on location, population density and accessibility in three slum areas of Dhaka such as Korail, Mohakhali and Kamrangirchar. The data collection methods included semi-structured interview s 9 , a questionnaire survey, primary and secondary data analysis 10 from various sources. By integrating qualitative and quantitative data, the study designed to comprehensively understand the relationship between solid waste management, health outcomes, and poverty alleviation in Dhaka City, capturing both nuanced experiences and broader patterns associated with waste management practices and their effects on individuals and society. b) Limitations of the Study The study faced several challenges in collecting data from the target demographic profiles. The statistical survey included participants from both affluent and low-income areas. Since affluent areas enjoy adequate services from DCC waste pickers, they do not fully represent the vulnerable population resulting in a skewed representation that may not accurately reflect the larger vulnerable population. These limitations should be considered when interpreting the results, as they may give a misleading impression of the overall effectiveness of waste collection services. Furthermore, the study was limited by the remote geographical location of the area and self- financing. Access to specific slum areas and government officials, NG O 11 representatives, hospital administrators and interviewers often posed additional barriers to data collection. Survey results indicate a gender distribution with a higher representation of male respondents, highlighting the need to acknowledge the survey's limitations in capturing the experiences and perspectives of those outside the male/female binary. It is momentous to note that the survey did not have the 8 See, https://education.nova.edu/Resources/uploads/app/35/files/arc _doc/mixed_methods.pdf 9 A semi-structured interview is a qualitative research method used to gain an in-depth understanding of the respondent's feelings and beliefs on specific issues. 10 Johnston, M. P. (2014). Secondary data analysis: A method of which the time has come. Qualitative and quantitative methods in libraries, 3(3), 619-626. 11 NGO stands for non-governmental organization. Source: ngosour ce.org option of identifying outside of the traditional male/ female category. Future surveys should include inclusive gender options so that respondents can accurately self-identify their gender. Despite efforts to address these limitations, an attempt has been made to provide an accurate result by analysing both primary and secondary data. c) Ethical Consideration Ethical considerations for the study on the impact of solid waste management on health and poverty alleviation in Dhaka City encompass several key aspects. Firstly, obtaining ethical approval from the relevant committee was sought to ensure the study adhered to established ethical guidelines. Secondly, the privacy and confidentiality of the participants 12 were strictly upheld, with measures implemented to safeguard their personal information. Informed consent, wherein participants were fully informed about the study's purpose and potential benefits, was obtained to ensure voluntary participation (Kothari, C. R. 2004). The study also took into account the cultural beliefs and practices of the participants, ensuring that the research did not infringe upon their cultural values or customs (Connelly, L. M. 2014). Moreover, precautions were taken to prevent any harm to the participants or the community throughout the study duration. It was also ensured that the waste management practices under investigation did not pose any risk to public health or the environment (World Medical Association, 2013). Furthermore, the study emphasized the principles of avoiding exploitation and coercion of participants, ensuring their autonomy and understanding of their rights (Giordano, et al., 2007). The research was designed to benefit society as a whole, while justifying any potential risks to participants by expected benefits, aligning with the principles outlined in the Nure m berg Code 13 . Overall, this study demonstrates a commitment to ethical principles, prioritizing the protection of human subjects and ensuring that the potential benefits of the study outweigh any associated risks. III. R esearch F inding: D emographic P rofile and D ata A nalysis In this study, primary data collection was directed through a set of questionnaires (Williamson, C., 2013). Following a description of the responses given by the participants, the findings were highlighted in line with the data analysis and presentation. Correspondingly, it 12 American Planning Association. (2002). APA Policy G uide on Solid and Hazardous Waste Management. Retrieved from https://www.plan ning.org/policy/guides/adopted/wastemgmt.htm 13 See, Nuremberg Code. https://research.unc.edu/human-research- ethics/resources/ccm3_019064/