Student-Authored Study Claims Can Recycling Is Hindered By The Lack Of A Consistent Message About Recyclability

16 May 2011

A report commissioned by trade body The Can Makers has found a lack of consistency and infrastructure are impeding efforts among young people to recycle more drinks cans "on the go"

The report was carried out by five environmental students, stating "simple and singular symbols" and access to standardised bins are "urgently needed" to increase on-the-go recycling rates among young people aged between 16-24 years old.

88 percent of students surveyed as part of the report said they would definitely recycle more if bins were available. Only 25 percent of students believed what they recycled actually went into new products.

The Can Makers- representing manufacturers of beer and carbonated soft drinks-commissioned communications firm onechocolate to survey students from five universities over a three-month period to gauge attitudes to drinks can recycling in an age group that is widely recognised to be the largest consumer of confectionary "on the go".

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 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.

Sporting Links

The report also claims that targeting major sporting events and public parks with necessary recycling bins could improve capture rates.

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 Britain's 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."

Darrel Moore

For more information visit www.canmakers.co.uk