The Level Of Knowledge Of SMAN 13 Medan Teachers On The Management Of Waste Masks During The Covid-19 Pandemic Period

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The Level of Knowledge of SMAN 13 Medan Teachers on the Management of Waste Masks During the Covid-19 Pandemic Period

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in our daily habits, including the widespread use of masks as a means of preventing the transmission of the virus. In Indonesia, the use of masks is estimated to reach 159,214,792 per day, resulting in a substantial amount of mask waste. This waste has the potential to pollute the environment and negatively impact human health. In this context, the role of teachers in building awareness and promoting positive behavior related to the management of waste masks is crucial. As educators, teachers have a vital task in educating and guiding students, including fostering their motivation and creativity in learning.

The Importance of Teacher Knowledge in Waste Management

Teachers play a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of their students. In the context of waste management, teachers can serve as role models and promote environmentally conscious practices among their students. By possessing sufficient knowledge about waste management, teachers can effectively educate their students on the importance of proper waste disposal and the negative impacts of improper waste management. This, in turn, can lead to a more environmentally conscious and responsible student body.

Methodology

This study employed a quantitative descriptive method with a cross-sectional approach to examine the level of knowledge of teachers at SMAN 13 Medan regarding the management of waste masks during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study used primary data collected from 74 high school teachers through a questionnaire. The results of the study aimed to provide insights into the level of knowledge of teachers at SMAN 13 Medan and identify areas for improvement in waste management practices.

Results

The results of the study showed that most teachers at SMAN 13 Medan had sufficient knowledge about the management of mask waste, with 52.7% of respondents indicating that they possessed sufficient knowledge. However, only 24.3% of teachers reported having good knowledge, while 23% of teachers had less knowledge. Although the majority of teachers had sufficient knowledge, the results highlighted gaps in understanding and practice of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan.

Discussion

The findings of the study suggest that while most teachers at SMAN 13 Medan have sufficient knowledge about the management of mask waste, there is still a need for improvement in understanding and practice. The results of the study emphasize the importance of education, provision of facilities, and collaboration with stakeholders in increasing the knowledge and practices of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations are made to improve the knowledge and practices of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan:

Improvement of Education

Schools need to hold more intensive education programs related to the management of mask waste, both for teachers and students. This program can be in the form of seminars, workshops, or delivery of educational material through various media. By providing regular education and training, teachers can enhance their knowledge and skills in waste management, which can, in turn, lead to improved practices among students.

Provision of Facilities

Schools need to provide special landfills for masks that are easily accessible and labeled clearly. Separate landfills will facilitate the process of collecting and sorting masks waste. This can help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and minimize the negative impacts of improper waste management.

Collaboration with Stakeholders

Schools need to work together with the Office of the Environment or related organizations to get the latest information about the management of mask waste and get help in handling masks waste. Collaboration with stakeholders can provide schools with access to resources, expertise, and support, which can help improve waste management practices.

Conclusion

Increasing knowledge and awareness about the management of waste masks is not only important to protect the environment but also to protect human health. By applying the practice of managing correct mask waste, we can reduce the negative impact of mask waste on the environment and our health. The findings of this study highlight the importance of education, provision of facilities, and collaboration with stakeholders in improving the knowledge and practices of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan. By implementing these recommendations, schools can promote environmentally conscious practices among students and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Management of Waste Masks During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Q: What is the main problem with the management of waste masks during the Covid-19 pandemic?

A: The main problem is the large amount of mask waste generated, which can pollute the environment and negatively impact human health.

Q: How much mask waste is generated in Indonesia every day?

A: According to estimates, Indonesia generates around 159,214,792 mask waste per day.

Q: What is the role of teachers in managing waste masks?

A: Teachers play a crucial role in building awareness and promoting positive behavior related to the management of waste masks. They can educate and guide students, including fostering their motivation and creativity in learning.

Q: What is the level of knowledge of teachers at SMAN 13 Medan regarding the management of waste masks?

A: The study found that most teachers at SMAN 13 Medan had sufficient knowledge about the management of mask waste, with 52.7% of respondents indicating that they possessed sufficient knowledge.

Q: What are the gaps in understanding and practice of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan?

A: The study highlighted gaps in understanding and practice of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan, despite most teachers having sufficient knowledge.

Q: What are the recommendations for improving the knowledge and practices of waste management masks at SMAN 13 Medan?

A: The recommendations include:

  • Improvement of education: Schools need to hold more intensive education programs related to the management of mask waste, both for teachers and students.
  • Provision of facilities: Schools need to provide special landfills for masks that are easily accessible and labeled clearly.
  • Collaboration with stakeholders: Schools need to work together with the Office of the Environment or related organizations to get the latest information about the management of mask waste and get help in handling masks waste.

Q: Why is it important to manage waste masks correctly?

A: Managing waste masks correctly is important to protect the environment and human health. Improper waste management can lead to pollution, contamination, and negative impacts on human health.

Q: What can individuals do to contribute to the management of waste masks?

A: Individuals can contribute to the management of waste masks by:

  • Properly disposing of used masks in designated bins
  • Reducing the use of single-use masks
  • Encouraging schools and communities to implement waste management practices
  • Supporting organizations that work on waste management and environmental conservation

Q: What is the significance of this study?

A: This study highlights the importance of education, provision of facilities, and collaboration with stakeholders in improving the knowledge and practices of waste management masks. It also emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for managing waste masks correctly to protect the environment and human health.