Effects of perceived situational factors on plastic packaging waste recycling behavior through environmental attitude

Abstract

This study explores the effects of perceived situational factors (cost, time, and effort) related to plastic packaging waste recycling behavior. It also examines the mediating role of environmental attitudes in this relationship. An online questionnaire-based survey administered to a pan-Canadian sample of 1000 respondents reveals that from an aggregate perspective, perceived situational factors positively and directly impact environmental attitudes and plastic packaging waste recycling. Because environmental attitude is also positively related to plastic recycling, environmental attitudes partially mediate the link between perceived situational factors and plastic recycling. From a piecemeal perspective, the perception of a higher degree of inexpensiveness, fastness, and effortlessness directly affects environmental attitudes and plastic packaging waste recycling. Hence, environmental attitude partially mediates the effect of consumers' perceived situational factors and explains their impact on plastic packaging waste recycling.