IGEE at Yonsei University

Research and Activity Objectives and Content   This study explores the social and ecological effects of decentralized composting in Telangana, India, and examines its potential as a climate-adaptive lifestyle practice. Specific objectives include:

1. Resident perceptions and attitudes: Explore understanding, participation motivations, and barriers, and analyze whether composting is perceived as a climate adaptation strategy.

2. Behavioral changes and practices: Qualitatively observe changes in waste handling, resource use, and daily habits during composting education and practice.

3. Waste generation and processing changes: Using compost kits provided by the research team, measure household waste reduction and changes in disposal practices, and assess social and economic benefits.

4. Conditions for climate-adaptive lifestyle adoption: Identify institutional and social conditions needed for decentralized composting to become a sustainable, community-based climate adaptation practice.

Research and Activity Plans or Methodology   The study uses qualitative case study methods to deeply understand human experiences and behavior changes within the local context. Ten residents from Telangana will be recruited through a local NGO for voluntary participation. This small-sample approach prioritizes rich, holistic insights over statistical generalization.

Data will be collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, participant self-recording, and educational workshops. Baseline data will be gathered via initial interviews and soil samples, followed by an 8–11 week composting education and self-practice period. Post-intervention interviews and soil analyses will then compare changes. Qualitative data will be analyzed thematically, while quantitative data such as waste amounts and soil composition will be tested using paired-sample t-tests.

Expected Effects and Follow-up Plans   The study is expected to provide a practical model for scaling decentralized composting in Telangana communities. Insights on residents’ motivations, barriers, and challenges will serve as foundational data for NGOs and local leaders planning similar projects. Youth climate education workshops, community leader sessions, and the provision of compost kits will help cultivate local human resources to drive sustainable change.

Furthermore, the study will offer policy-relevant insights for establishing decentralized composting as a climate-adaptive lifestyle. In-depth analysis of residents’ behavior and perceptions can inform social and cultural considerations in waste management policies. For example, household waste reduction and soil improvement data can provide objective evidence to support local circular economy initiatives.