Integrating Sustainability Dimensions and Stakeholder Engagement in Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries: Evidence from Pakistan Using Structural Equation Modeling

Rapid urbanization and population growth have intensified solid waste management (SWM) challenges in developing countries, where institutional capacity and stakeholder participation remain limited. Existing studies, particularly in the context of Pakistan, largely examine isolated technical or environmental aspects, with limited integration of sustainability dimensions and stakeholder dynamics. This study develops and empirically validates an integrated structural equation modeling (SEM) framework to examine the interrelationships among sustainable solid waste management systems (SSWM), stakeholder engagement (SE), and solid waste management strategies (SWMS). Primary data were collected from 420 stakeholders representing diverse groups. The measurement model demonstrated strong reliability and validity, while the structural model exhibited excellent fit indices. Results indicate that economic, social, technical and environmental and institutional dimensions significantly shape SSWM. Structural path analysis reveals that SSWM significantly influences SE and SWMS, while SE has a significant effect on SWMS. Mediation analysis confirms that SE partially mediates the relationship between SSWM and SWMS, highlighting the critical role of participatory governance. The findings demonstrate that achieving sustainable waste management requires the integration of system-level capacity, stakeholder engagement, and strategic implementation. This study contributes to the sustainability literature by providing a holistic framework and providing understanding for policymakers to promote circular economy practices and resource efficiency in developing countries.