Abstract
Recent studies indicate that the impact of intervention techniques depends upon the specific context in which the intervention takes place, including characteristics of the target group and the spatial situation. Starting from the assumption that interventions can optimally be tailored to the specific situation by involving the target group right from the planning stage of the intervention, a heuristic has been developed which should encourage the best possible participation. The use of this heuristic is demonstrated by reporting a participatory intervention process carried out to improve correct sorting of recyclables in a student hall of residence. As proposed, the planning group took into account group characteristics and the specific context of intervention in their choice and design of measurements. Target behaviour was measured by re-sorting and analysing the contents of packaging and garbage containers over a period of 30 weeks. Incorrect sorting of recyclables decreased from 38 per cent average contamination to 22·5 per cent during and after intervention concerning the packaging containers and from 69 to 53 per cent concerning unclassified garbage containers. In a control group no decrease was observed. It is discussed whether the specific tailoring of the measurements is responsible for the long-term effects or participation as a whole.
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