With the world's growing population, waste generation has become a major challenge, and recycling has gained attention as one of the primary solutions to address this crisis. Among the factors contributing to success in waste recycling, raising public awareness and changing citizens' attitudes towards this process are crucial to increase their recycling behaviors. In this study, 384 female citizens aged 18 to 65 from the city of Ilam were surveyed. The data collection tool was a questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the SPSS software.

The present study indicates that the average awareness of Ilam women regarding waste recycling is at a moderate level; their average attitude towards this issue is also relatively positive. However, the extent of recycling behavior among Ilam women remains at a moderate level. These results suggest that most Ilam women are in favor of recycling but do not practice it sufficiently. In other words, there is a gap between their awareness, attitude, and practice. Based on the findings of this research, it is recommended that continuous educational and awareness programs, the establishment of appropriate infrastructure, the encouragement and motivation of citizens, and inter-sectoral cooperation be considered to promote a recycling culture in the urban community of Ilam.