Drivers and Constraints to Participation in Residential Solid Waste Recycling Collection

Research Purpose: The number of municipalities providing selective collection programs is increasing in Brazil. However, it is observed that a large amount of recyclable materials improperly destined to landfills, showing the low effectiveness of selective collection programs. This is due to the low popular adherence to the selective collection programs. This research aimed to identify the factors that drive and restrict popular participation in selective collection programs. Theoretical framework: A theoretical model was proposed to identify which factors influence popular participation in selective collection programs, searching in the literature those factors that boost and restrict the individual's recycling behavior. Methodology: The field study consists of an explanatory research of quantitative nature, conducted with residents of a large Brazilian capital, with the application of a questionnaire in person and online. The collected data were submitted to descriptive analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and Structural Equation Modeling. Results: The hypotheses were accepted and their results confronted with the theory expressed. The results allowed us to identify the factors that drive and restrict popular participation in selective collection programs. Notwithstanding some limitations, it is noteworthy that the objectives were achieved. Originality: This research innovates by employing a methodology, of a quantitative nature, with robust techniques of multivariate analysis and Structural Equation Modeling to support original theoretical aspects. Theoretical and practical contributions: The findings of this research may change the way in which the dissemination and operationalization strategies of selective collection programs are defined. Other relevant social points, reasons that also do not refer to formal studies that can participate in a selective collection.