This study offers a comparative sociological analysis of public perceptions surrounding municipal solid waste (MSW) management in the megacities of Russia and China. Against the backdrop of an intensifying global environmental crisis, there is an urgent need for innovative research to inform effective ecological strategies. Urbanization stands as a primary driver of environmental degradation, with MSW management representing one of the most pressing challenges in contemporary urban governance. Despite technological advancements in waste segregation and disposal, widespread public acceptance remains elusive, hindering the operational efficiency of urban waste systems. In both Russia and China, prevailing societal attitudes toward waste segregation present a formidable obstacle to the successful implementation of environmental policies. Consequently, transforming public perceptions of modern waste collection and management technologies is imperative. The evolution of these attitudes is closely tied to the development of environmental ethics within urban populations. This article investigates the current status and key challenges in fostering environmental consciousness across Russian and Chinese megacities.