Importance of involving children in designing recycling facilities : a case study of Hong Kong children collecting and recycling recyclables

Abstract

Given the importance of recycling to ensuring an environmentally sustainable future, it is imperative that children be taught to recycle at home. Yet in major metropolises such as Hong Kong, household recycling is still uncommon and relevant knowledge is not passed between generations. Based on a Hong Kong case study, the study reveals the importance of involving children through teaching children to design and make their own recyclable storage bags. The findings show that children who attended a lecture about environmental protection and/or workshops on making recyclable storage bags did not initially have recycling habits, but they were more eager to recycle afterwards. More involvement in designing recycling gadgets and facilities would result higher participation and motivation. The study thus provides strong evidence of the effect of children’s involvement in recycling activities through designing and making recycling-related items.