A systematic literature review on individuals’ waste separation behavior

Abstract

Managing mixed waste poses environmental challenges and source separation has been encouraged worldwide. By reviewing 279 relevant papers systematically on waste separation behavior, its definition, influencing factors, commonly applied theories, statistical models, and implications are presented in this paper. Firstly, the term waste separation behavior was defined compared to similar concepts. Taking account of the multi-level attributes of separation behavior, the determinants were divided into micro and macro factors. Among the micro factors, the factors with the most empirical evidence are norms, intention, convenience, and knowledge. Personality and affective evaluation are suggested to be included for future investigation. On the macro level, four factors are analyzed: policies, economy, culture, and market. Possible pathways for research and interventions are given to encourage relevant stakeholders to understand and promote waste separation behavior.