28 Oct. 2024: A poll of 2,000 people has found that Gen Z are “the worst at recycling”.
Commissioned by DS Smith and conducted by OnePoll.com, the investigation found that the youngest adult generation is the most likely to bin rather than recycle – despite “the perception they’re the most eco-conscious”.
Gen Z (19%) were the lowest generation to recycle all their paper and cardboard – with Boomers (54%) achieving the highest score.
Gen Z participants cited recycling bins not being readily available in public spaces, a lack of knowledge and contamination concerns with things such as meat packaging as the top reasons they struggle to recycle more.
The data shows that almost all (92%) of Gen Z admitted to throwing something in the bin instead of recycling it because they couldn’t be bothered to clean it out.
The youngest adult generation was also found to be the most likely to admit to confusion around what they can and can’t recycle – with over half (53%) confessing to a lack of understanding.
DS Smith said that food waste and plastic bags frequently make it into the wrong bins of those under 27.
Michael Orye, DS Smith’s managing director of recycling and paper in Europe
Michael Orye, DS Smith’s managing director of recycling and paper in Europe, added: “What we’re seeing is a generational gap when it comes to recycling. There’s no doubt that all generations want to play their part in helping the environment; the challenge is getting people to understand the role recycling plays in this.”
Differences between older and younger generations
The packaging company said that younger generations are only half as likely to recycle cardboard, paper and plastic bottles at home.
Boomers (people born approximately between 1946 to 1964) were the highest demographic to say that they thought more clarity was required on packaging on how to recycle it.
Young adults were found to be the most likely to call someone out if they see someone throwing something away that could have been recycled.
Across all respondents, 31% felt it is the government’s responsibility to get more people recycling, while 26% said they thought it is down to local councils.
Orye added: “The research shows that younger people want to do their bit for the environment – but confusion over what is and isn’t ok when it comes to recycling is a major part of the problem.
“The UK’s recycling rate is stagnating, and more education is needed to help everyone – whatever your age – start to see recycling not as waste, but how to make the most of materials.
“We must come together to tackle this problem head on and ensure that all generations have the information to become elite recyclers.”