LINKING RECYCLING BEHAVIOR TO WASTE MANAGEMENT PLANNING - A CASE-STUDY OF OFFICE WORKERS IN TAIWAN

Abstract

In recent years, planners have become increasingly involved in issues related to solid waste and the need to develop comprehensive waste management programs. Policy options have been suggested for reducing consumption-an important mechanism for addressing the solid waste disposal problem. These options range from educational programs which encourage individuals and organizations to voluntarily minimize consumer waste to regulations that mandate waste reduction behavior, including recycling, resource reduction, and re-use. In deciding among policy options, planners need to understand those factors that are likely to influence these behaviors in different settings. Although there is a growing body of research covering factors which influence household recycling, determinants of recycling in the workplace are largely unknown. In this paper, a model displaying factors that may contribute to recycling behavior in the office is presented. Components of the model are then analyzed using data from questionnaires administered to 1788 office workers in 32 organizations in the Taipei metropolitan area. The role of prior recycling experience at home and the organizational and physical context of workplaces in determining office recycling rates are analyzed, as are relationships between environmental attitudes and motivations and recycling practices. Finally, policy options (i.e. educational programs. financial incentives. establishing social norms) for conserving resources through waste management are discussed in light of the findings.