Factors affecting materials recovery from municipal waste

According to the 2008 data, recycling rates in 60 municipalities in Bologna Province vary in a very wide range from 15% to over 60%. In order to promote sustainable practices of resource (in this case, materials) recovery, it is important to identify factors that influence the attitudes and behaviour of citizens in this regard and clarify the differences among these municipalities. Starting from the findings of similar studies that have been carried out elsewhere, this research study is undertaken to investigate these factors in Bologna Province. Particular attention is paid to the role of information and awareness raising campaigns implemented in the municipalities under investigation. Stratified sampling is used to select 17 municipalities that are representative of the Bologna Province according to relevant characteristics. Research methodology includes interviews with formal stakeholders such as municipal authorities and waste service providers, as well as a survey among residents. In addition, pertinent documents and campaigning materials are studied. This paper presents the results of the study. The research reveals that several municipalities have very significantly improved their recycling rates in the course of the last year. The findings of the study provide insights into the factors that explain the difference in recycling rates among municipalities as well as those that have contributed to the increase of recycling rates in the recent perio