While some 88% of consumers in Ireland believe that they are doing a ‘great job’ with their approach to recycling, just over half (53%) can accurately identify what items can actually be recycled, a new study by Repak has found.
Repak’s Recycling Knowledge Audit has revealed what the recycling group says is a ‘startling truth’ – that while many believe themselves to be ‘recycling pros’, the opposite is often the case.
Common misconceptions arise with products such as bleach bottles, with just 29% of respondents knowing the correct way to dispose of them – ensuring the bottle is empty, with the lid on, and placed in the recycling bin.
Elsewhere, 41% knew that the correct way to recycle cereal boxes was to separate the plastic cereal bag, flatten the box, and then recycle both pieces of packaging.
Finally, just 45% of respondents correctly identified deodorant cans as a product that can be recycled.
Perceived knowledge
“Our Recycling Knowledge Audit has revealed a significant gap between perceived recycling knowledge and the reality of recycling practices across Ireland,” commented Zoe Kavanagh, Repak chief executive. “While many believe they’re doing the right thing, a national average score of 64% shows that we are not where we need to be—recycling is a 100% game.
“Education is crucial to ensure the public understands what can and cannot be recycled, but this is only one part of the solution.”
Three-bin structure
According to Kavanagh, blame can’t be solely attributed to households, with the current ‘three-bin structure’ requiring greater adoption.
For example, just 40% of respondents said their workplace lacks a three-bin system or that they are unsure whether one is in place.
“We must enhance recycling capacity and improve infrastructure across the board,” she added. “These efforts are all interconnected, and consumer education plays a pivotal role. Addressing these broader issues is essential if we are to meet our targets and become the most sorted country in the EU.” Read the full study here.
