Recycling, food waste segregation and prevention in high-density households in a deprived urban area

A waste audit and a household questionnaire survey were conducted in high-density housing estates in one of the most economically and socially deprived areas of England (Haringey, London). The study examined recycling behaviours, potential participation in a food waste segregation scheme, and food waste prevention activities in five estates (1,034 households). The results showed that: contamination of recyclables’ containers was low; ca. 28% of the general waste’s weight was recyclable; a smaller than average proportion of food waste was present; and the recycling profile reflected an intermittent pattern rather than a frequent one. Although the majority of respondents reported that they would participate in a food waste separation scheme, the response rate was low and many responses of “don’t know” were recorded. Populations in deprived areas that reside in high-rise, high-density dwellings are “hard-to-reach” in terms of participation in recycling schemes and exceptional efforts and additional resources are usually required to improve performanc