Human behavior outcomes at point of disposal of a biodegradable plastic cup at a U.S.-based university campus

Abstract

Human behavior outcomes at the point of waste disposal are a complex and often neglected area of life cycle assessment modeling of single-use products. To fill this data gap, waste audit data was collected from two campus facilities of a large research university located in the midwestern United States (U.S.). In these facilities, “compostable” plastic cups made of polylactic acid (PLA) are offered by vendors. Eight distinct waste audit trials were completed throughout the course of 15 months. Two different waste streams were sorted: recycling and landfill. This study considered all plastic cups, both PLA and non-PLA (PETE, PP, and PS). Observed disposal percentages in ‘correct’ bins were 67 % for PETE, 36 % for PP, 40 % for PS, and 52 % for PLA. Waste audit findings reveal that individuals likely do not know or do not act on what they know when disposing of PLA, PP, and PS cups in a U.S.-based campus location.