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 [Responsible Production & the Circular Economy](/categories/responsible-production-circular-economy)

 # New Behavior Science Research Reveals Getting Consumers To Commit To Recycling Isn't Necessarily Enough

 

##### Micro-behaviors take place before recycling becomes habitual with implications on education efforts

 

 

 Dec 21, 2021 11:00 AM ET

  ![Micro-Behaviors of the Recycling Journey Following Commitment ](https://3blcdn.com/styles/carousel_2x/s3/2026-08/Behavior_Science_Image__1786679349.png)

 

To better understand how to improve recycling, in particular how to get more consumers to recycle their food and beverage cartons, the Carton Council of North America recently commissioned a behavioral science study which identified factors that play into recycling decisions.

The [study revealed there are micro-behaviors](https://www.cartonopportunities.org/sites/default/files/files/Behavior%20Science%20Image%20.pdf) most people need to go through after committing to recycle before it becomes a habit. While the study was specific to cartons, the micro-behaviors are relevant to all commonly recyclable materials and serve as a reminder that even after a consumer has committed to recycling more and/or better, there are still many steps required to make their behavior habitual.

Some of these factors are logistical, such as having the tools necessary to recycle, like a container or location to store recyclables in the kitchen. Others are more psychological and include things like judging whether others recycle; following social norms surrounding recycling; encouraging others in the household to recycle; and feeling positive about being a good neighbor and citizen for recycling.

[**Learn more about the study here**](https://www.cartonopportunities.org/behavior-science-research)

**ABOUT THE CARTON COUNCIL**  
The Carton Council is composed of four leading carton manufacturers, [Elopak](https://www.elopak.com/usa/), [Pactiv Evergreen](https://pactivevergreen.com/), [SIG Combibloc](https://www.sig.biz/en), and [Tetra Pak](https://www.tetrapak.com/en-us). Formed in 2009, the Carton Council works to deliver long-term collaborative solutions in order to divert valuable cartons from the landfill. Through a united effort, the Carton Council is committed to building a sustainable infrastructure for carton recycling nationwide and works toward their continual goal of adding access to carton recycling throughout the U.S.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 [![Tetra Pak logo](/sites/default/files/Clients/2LIN_RGB_EN_a20.png)](/profiles/tetra-pak)

 

 

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