consistent implementation of standardized disposal procedures. The composite means for waste collection
(4.80) and waste disposal (4.80) were jointly ranked first, while waste segregation (4.78) closely followed.
The quantitative results showed remarkable uniformity across respondent groups, as statistical testing indicated
no significant differences in their assessments. This suggests a shared perception of waste management
compliance and effectiveness, regardless of the respondents’ roles.
In terms of specific practices, managers and staff consistently highlighted adherence to municipal collection
schedules and the use of proper disposal points as top priorities. Segregation was also rated highly, with
particular emphasis on the use of color-coded receptacles to separate hazardous, biodegradable, and recyclable
waste.
Despite these positive assessments, reported challenges were minimal and rated as “very least encountered”
overall (composite mean = 1.50). The few issues noted included occasional lapses in observing collection
schedules, limited trash bins, and insufficient sanitation of waste-handling facilities. These findings indicate
that while buffet restaurants demonstrate strong compliance with waste management standards, operational
efficiency could still be improved in certain logistical aspects.
The results highlight that integrated waste management systems are being successfully implemented, but
sustaining these practices during peak operational hours and ensuring resource adequacy (e.g., sufficient bins,
facility sanitation) remain critical for further improvement.
Quantitative results indicated that buffet restaurants in Quezon City generally comply with waste management
rules, however, the interviews showed that consistency is still a challenge. Restaurant employees and
restaurant managers admitted that waste segregation often weakens during peak hours when quick service
takes priority. Customer behavior also plays a big role in plate waste, as many diners take more food than they
can finish, and the buffet setup itself—focused on variety and abundance—naturally creates surplus. These
insights suggest that raising customer awareness and introducing portion control strategies could help reduce
waste.
Respondents also pointed to barriers such as limited staff, costs, safety concerns, and weak enforcement, which
make advanced practices like composting or food donations harder to sustain. Despite these challenges, both
LGU employees and restaurant managers expressed willingness to collaborate, recognizing that sustainable
practices can lower costs and attract eco-conscious customers. Overall, while compliance is evident, stronger
collaboration, training, and customer participation are needed to make waste management more consistent and
sustainable.
CONCLUSIONS
The waste management practices in the selected buffet restaurants in Quezon City are carried out with notable
consistency and effectiveness, covering all key components of collection, segregation, and disposal. Across all
respondent groups—managers, local government unit employees, and restaurant staff—there is a shared
agreement that these practices are highly implemented and aligned with the city’s existing environmental
regulations. While the overall assessment reflects strong compliance and operational discipline, only minimal
challenges were reported, suggesting that any constraints encountered have a limited impact on the overall
effectiveness of the waste management systems in place.
While compliance is strong, interviews revealed that consistency sometimes weakens during peak hours, as
fast service takes priority, and that customer behavior—such as taking more food than they can finish—adds to
plate waste. Challenges like limited staff, costs, safety concerns, and weak enforcement also make it difficult to
adopt advanced practices such as composting or food donations. Even so, managers, staff, and LGU
representatives expressed a willingness to improve, recognizing that better training, monitoring, and customer
engagement could not only reduce waste but also cut costs and appeal to more eco-conscious diners.