Development of an objective measure of knowledge of plastic recycling: The outcomes of plastic recycling knowledge scale (OPRKS)

Abstract

We are witnessing exponential trends in the production and use of plastic. This exponential increase can largely be attributed to the benefits certain kinds of plastic have. However, there are harmful consequences of plastic use and disposal. Recycling plastic is one potential way to mitigate the harmful consequences of plastic disposal, yet people in the United States recycle at a low rate (∼20–30% of recyclable material). One factor likely related to recycling behaviors is objective knowledge of plastic recycling. No instrument exists to measure objective knowledge of plastic recycling. In three studies, (N = 224, 195, and 246) we developed a 13-item objective measure of knowledge of plastic recycling, the Outcomes of Plastic Recycling Knowledge Scale (OKPRS). The 13-item measure predicted attitudes towards recycling, subjective norms, subjective knowledge, and environmental concern. The OKPRS also uniquely predicted positive recycling behaviors in addition to attitudes towards recycling, subjective norms, subjective knowledge, and environmental concern. Having a measure of objective recycling knowledge fills a void in models predicting plastic recycling and may help us estimate if, and to what extent, educational interventions increase desirable recycling behaviors.