SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): A new research conducted by faculty at The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business has examined the effectiveness of curbside recycling audits in limiting contamination. The audits will improve curbside recycling, it said.

The study highlighted that contamination has emerged as one of the biggest threats to the recycling industry. As per estimates, household-level sorting errors result in approximately 20-25% contamination in collected recyclables. The material recycling facilities (MRFs) spend millions of dollars to remove contaminants.

ALSO READ:

Sterling Heights to Roll Out New Waste, Recycling Carts

Curbside Recycling Returns to Summit Township

If contaminants are found, it may lead to either cart warning or cart refusal. The survey revealed that the information-plus-penalty mechanisms or cart refusals are most effective. As per studies, it led to reduction in contamination severity by 59%. Also, nearly three-fourths were found less likely to commit such a violation in the future.

 In addition, the recycling participation did not witness decline after receiving punitive feedback mechanism. This was quite contrary to the arguments by various stakeholders that punitive mechanisms may discourage participation in future.

In short, the research study concluded that cart refusal mechanism is effective, especially when administered to households with moderate to high income and education levels.