Student Evaluations of Recyclable Materials Collections in University-Owned Residence Halls at The Ohio State University

Abstract

This undergraduate honors project examined recycling knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of Ohio State University students living in university residence halls. The main purpose of the project was to answer the following questions as they relate to undergraduate students living in residence halls at OSU: 1. What requisite knowledge do these students have about recycling procedures at OSU? 2. What perceptions do these students hold in regard to the recycling program at OSU? 3. What level of satisfaction, in regard to the recycling program at OSU, do these students report? 4. What would further motivate these students to improve their participation in the recycling program at OSU? An on-line survey was conducted of students who served as Resident Advisors (RAs) of OSU residence halls during the 2004-2005 academic year. Focus group research was conducted with other students that live or have lived in residence halls. Findings in relation to the four main questions posed by this research include: 1. Many RAs lack general knowledge vital to participation in the recyclable materials collection in residence halls. 2. There is a strong perception among RAs that recyclable materials placed in recycling collection containers on OSU campus do not actually get recycled. 3. The sentiment among research participants was that they are not satisfied with the program. 4. Students who participated in the survey and the focus groups noted that they would be more likely to recycle if bins were better labeled and in more convenient locations. RAs responded that they would be more likely to recycle if they knew the items were actually being recycled. Student residents felt they would be more likely to recycle if the items placed in recycling bins, such as alcoholic beverage containers, would not reflect negatively upon them. The study underscored the need for an education program on recycling for OSU student residents. Information on what can be recycled on campus, where items can be recycled, and what happens to items after they are placed in bins could be helpful. In addition, more convenient placement of bins as well as better labeling of bins may create a more efficient program.