New research suggests generational disparities regarding recycling

Recent research has revealed certain generational disparities when it comes to recycling be it paper, plastics, or electronics recycling. A recent online survey of over 2,000 Americans by the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, and conducted by Harris Poll, suggests that certain generations are more ambitious and conscientious about their recycling habits than others.

• The Millennials, aged 18-34, are a generation that has been priding itself on its being “green” conscious but the research has found that they are less likely to recycle anything than the older generations are. Among the Millennials, 33% stated that they regularly recycle while nearly 50% of the over 34 age group said they recycle on a regular basis.
• Even those over the age of 65 tend to recycle as much if not more than their younger counterparts. According to the research, about 55% of those over the age of 65 are doing electronics recycling as well as other types including paper and plastic.
• While recycling is, for the most part, looked upon as the responsible thing to do, the Baby Boomers think that by a wide margin when compared with the Millennials by 61%-53%.
• Electronics recycling has now become an easy way to recycle everything from old cell phones to computers and tablets. What the recent research did uncover was that 65% of everyone polled will be unlikely to recycle if there is no convenient way for them to do so regardless of the type of waste. Electronics recycling is fast becoming the rule rather than the exception as more and more people begin to take their outdated equipment to their local recycling companies.