Predicting multi-family dwelling recycling behaviors using structural equation modelling: A case study of Hong Kong

Abstract

The problem of solid waste is acute in Hong Kong. Among various options for waste management, recycling attracts the most attention. Recycling minimizes the amount of waste that requires disposal and at the same time, it promotes the management of sustainable resources. Different from most Western cities, the recycling program of Hong Kong primarily targets multi-family dwellings (MFDs). Although the performance of the program is far from satisfactory, little is known about what factors and how they affect recycling behavior. With that in mind, this paper adopted a modified knowledge-attitude-practice (KAP) model by proposing three components (i.e., convenience, housing type and PM initiative) as the theoretical framework, to investigate how the MFD recycling behavior is shaped by environmental and psychological factors. A random telephone survey (N = 1016) was conducted in Hong Kong, then Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to identify and outline the structures of the framework. The results indicated that housing type, property manager (PM) initiative, attitude, and convenience affected the recycling behavior of Hong Kong residents. In addition, PM initiative had a significant effect on attitude that further affected convenience. These findings not only can provide a reference for the improvement and implementation of the recycling program in Hong Kong but also supplement the existing literature.