A new study by the Californian environmental authority CalRecycle shows that although many consumers recycle regularly, they are often unsure about how to sort packaging correctly. The analysis is based on a survey of 2,297 adults in California and is intended to support the implementation of the extended producer responsibility system for packaging.
The study is part of the preparation for the „Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act“, which introduces an EPR system for disposable packaging and disposable food service items in California. The aim of the study is to analyse the level of knowledge, recycling behaviour and access to collection systems and to derive measures for consumer information and infrastructure.
High willingness to recycle, but uncertainties in sorting
According to the survey, 95 % of respondents state that they recycle regularly. At the same time, however, there are significant gaps in knowledge about how to prepare and sort packaging correctly. Many participants are unsure how to prepare materials before putting them in the recycling bin or how to interpret recycling symbols and plastic codes on packaging.
Certain types of packaging are also incorrectly categorised. For example, beverage cartons or similar composite packaging are significantly less likely to end up correctly in the recycling stream.
Access to collection infrastructure is a decisive factor
In addition to a lack of information, infrastructure also plays an important role. According to the study, 77 % of respondents have their own waste, recycling or organic waste bins, while around a fifth have to share the bins with other households. Three per cent state that they have no access to such bins at all.
According to the analysis, households in apartment blocks in particular are more frequently affected by restricted access and share recycling bins much more often than residents of single-family homes.
Interest in less disposable packaging
The study also shows a broad participation in measures to reduce packaging waste. For example, 74 % of respondents occasionally buy products in bulk packaging, while 67 % specifically choose products with minimal or no plastic packaging. Other measures include the purchase of concentrated products or the use of refill systems.
Consumers cite environmental aspects, less packaging waste and lower costs as the most important reasons for such decisions.
Significance for the new packaging EPR system
According to CalRecycle, the results should help to expand information campaigns and infrastructure in a more targeted manner as part of the new EPR system for packaging. The authors see a particular need for action in the areas of consumer information, access to collection systems and the avoidance of incorrect waste.
Source: CalRecycle
