Differences Between Household Waste Reduction, Reuse and Recycling Behaviour: a Study of Reported Behaviours, Intentions and Explanatory Variables

Abstract

Research into individual waste management has focused primarily on recycling behaviour. It is argued here that there also needs to be a focus on reuse and reduction of waste. The diversity of waste behaviour and its antecedents is therefore emphasised. The declared reduction, reuse and recycling behaviour of 673 households in Exeter, Devon is detailed. Differences between behaviours are examined. This is then discussed in the context of the intentions stated by respondents towards these three activities. Comparisons are made. The data are then subjected to factor analyses and regression procedures to demonstrate the diversity of variables that explain each behaviour. Key words: household waste behaviour, intentions to manage waste, explanatory framework