Differences in self reported recycling behavior of first and second generation South Asians in Ontario, Canada

Calvin Lakhan

Resources, Conservation & Recycling, 2015, vol. 97, issue C, 31-43

Abstract: This study examines differences in self-reported recycling behavior between first and second generation South Asians in Ontario, Canada. Using a combination of semi structured surveys and interviews with 341 South Asians in seven communities, focus is placed on: (1) identifying differences in attitudes toward recycling and recycling participation between first and second generation South Asians, (2) exploring how past recycling experiences affect current recycling behavior among first generation South Asians and (3) explore how first and second generation South Asians respond to recycling promotion and education literature. Significant differences were observed between the two groups, with second generation respondents viewing recycling more favorably, as well as indicating higher levels of recycling participation, awareness and willingness to respond to recycling promotion and education literature. This study also found that source separation of recyclables was not a common waste management practices in first generation respondents’ country of origin. A lack of past participation in recycling programs may serve as a barrier to recycling behavior, potentially explaining differences in levels of recycling participation between first and second generation South Asians in Ontario.

Keywords: Recycling; Race; Diversion; Ethnicity; Waste management; Immigrant (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:recore:v:97:y:2015:i:c:p:31-43

DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2015.02.006

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