Adoption of organic waste sorting behavior at home: who recycles and which barriers exist for non-recyclers? A representative survey

Résumé 0

Organic waste sorting impacts greenhouse gase emissions and energy consumption. Because the recycling rate of organic waste is often lower than other types of waste (e.g., paper, glass), behavioral sciences are needed to promote this behavior. Relative to general recycling behavior, which has been more often studied, literature is scarce on the psychological determinants of organic waste sorting behavior. This study aims to fill this gap and examine the perspectives of non-recyclers and recyclers on using a publicly funded kitchen scraps recycling bin called P’tite Poubelle Verte (PPV, French for Small Green Bin). A representative survey was conducted on more than 1,200 respondents. Sociodemographic characteristics associated with the behavior were tested, as was the association between organic waste sorting behavior and knowledge and beliefs. The main barriers to the behavior among non-recyclers are the associated smells, gnats/midges, and liquids. Results also showed that young people/students sometimes did not own the PPV but were willing to use it if received for free. Among recyclers, a lack of knowledge of what could be put in the PPV was clear; thus, the sorting quality can be improved. This paper concludes with suggestions for promoting the behavior in each group: improve correct sorting among recyclers, distribute the PPV to people willing to use it, and help non-recyclers to improve the convenience of this recycling behavior (e.g., by providing aerated bins, resistant bags, and communicate tips and encourage emptying the bag every few days even if not yet filled).