The Evolution of Resident Participation in Waste Management in Condominium Developments: A Case Study of Lumpini Place Pinklao

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of waste management approaches through resident participation across different development periods of the Lumpini Place Pinklao condominium project under L.P.N. Development Public Company Limited. The analysis is structured into three distinct phases: the initial phase (30 years), the intermediate phase (20 years), and the current phase (10 years), with the primary objective of exploring the longitudinal relationship between levels of resident participation and waste management outcomes. A mixed-methods research design was employed to ensure data triangulation. Qualitative data were collected through document reviews, field observations, and in-depth interviews with key informants, including senior corporate management, members of the condominium juristic person committee, and project managers. Quantitative data were obtained from questionnaire surveys administered to project residents and subsequently analyzed using statistical methods.

The analytical framework was grounded in Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation and the concept of Community-Based Environmental Management (CBEM). The findings reveal a clear progression in practices: the initial phase focused on cleanliness and hygiene with responsibilities concentrated among juristic persons. The intermediate phase emphasized communication and environmental awareness, leading to increased resident involvement. In the current phase, waste management has become highly systematic, incorporating user-friendly system design, innovations, and incentive mechanisms. The study concludes that advancing from symbolic involvement toward meaningful engagement requires strengthening learning processes and providing opportunities for residents to take active roles, which are essential for the long-term sustainability of condominium communities.