Mixed messages and limited collection infrastructure are impeding efforts among 16-to-24-year-olds to recycle more drinks cans away from home, a report commissioned by trade body The Can Makers has found.
The report, which was carried out by five environmental students and published earlier this week (May 11), states that simple and singular symbols and access to standardised bins are urgently needed to increase on-the-go recycling rates among young people.
And, at the forefront of its findings, the Recycling on the Go a Youth Perspective report highlights a series of short-term measures which should be taken aimed at increasing recycling of drinks cans among 16-to-24-year-olds.
The Can Makers which represents manufacturers of beer and carbonated soft drinks commissioned communications firm onechocolate to survey students from five universities over a three-month period.
This was in order to gauge attitudes to drinks can recycling, as the Can Makers claim it is widely recognised that the age bracket is the largest consumer of food and drink on the go.
Focus
The report suggests that focussed messaging at all stages of the drinks retail process could benefit recycling. It states that a uniform message at the point of purchase, consumption and discard would help increase recycling rates.
Further to this, the report also draws a strong link between the studied age group and participation in sport both actively and as supporters. Therefore it claims that targeting major sporting events and public parks with necessary recycling bins could improve capture rates.
In the report, 88% of students surveyed as part of the report said they would definitely recycle more if bins were available. And, only 25% of students believed what they recycled actually went into new products.
In the longer term, the report advocates an education-based approach to recycling. And, while the students surveyed indicate that higher education institutions tend to have a greater understanding of recycling, it was important to spread the message to all 16-to-24-year-olds regardless of education status.
Impact
Commenting on the report, Geoff Courtney, chairman of The Can Makers, said: I have to say it has been a pleasure working with such an enthusiastic and constructive group. We hope this report contributes to increasing on the go rates in the near future.
And, the Can Makers will be raising issues highlighted in the report with relevant industry bodies with a view to helping increase on the go recycling rates among Britains young people.
Adam Cooley, student spokesperson and final year student at Oxford Brookes University, added: This has been a great opportunity to take a fresh look at the recycling challenge. So often young people are criticised as being the root of the problem, but we are never given a voice to suggest our solutions.
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