Advisers

Vinalyn L. Sarzata, MBA

Discipline

Tourism & hospitality

Abstract

This study explore the waste management practices at Villanueva Resort, a private resort in Rodriguez, Rizal. Established in 2001 and converted into a commercial venture in 2006, Villanueva Resort accommodates various special events and focuses on personalized service and exclusivity. This research examined the resort’s operational practices, sustainability initiatives, and challenges, with a particular focus on waste management. The study aimed to provide data-driven recommendations to enhance the resort’s waste management practices, reduce operational costs, and increase sustainability, ultimately benefiting the environment and enhancing public perception of local resources. The research employed the descriptive quantitative method and employed surveys, interviews, and observations made on-site to gather data. The respondents were the management and staff of the resort who have direct involvement in waste handling. Surveys were employed to measure the efficiency of waste management in terms of segregation, recycling, disposal, reuse, reduction, recovery, and prevention. Semi-structured interviews of resort employees were conducted to obtain qualitative data, and observations were conducted for facilities, waste bins, sites of disposal, and overall compliance with proper standards of waste disposal. The present research assessed employee perception of waste management practice in Villanueva Resort. The results revealed that the majority of the participants endorsed segregation, recycling, disposal, reuse, reduction, recovery, and prevention as vital, but the resort can upgrade signs of waste avoidance and reduce single-use plastics. Statistical results revealed age influenced recycling and reuse attitudes, and position influenced reuse and recovery attitudes. Length of service had no impact, while gender yielded no significant variation. Reduction of waste through recycling, composting, and segregation forms the core of the waste management strategy of the resort. Although they understand the importance of proper disposal, there are challenges to staff during holiday seasons. Colour-coded bins, training of staff, frequent inspections, and provision of proper equipment are among the strategies. With an initial cost for the composting facilities, signage, and training, the employees and management share responsibilities. Sustainability programs will involve participation of the community, holding employees responsible, and minimizing waste in the long run.

Keywords

Sustainability, waste management, recycling, employee perception