An agent-based modelling simulation on nudging recycling behaviour for novel materials: A case study for bioplastics

This project examines in what ways a nudge recycling campaign influences the disposal behaviour of bioplastics in higher education (HE) students. Bioplastics represent an example of a product, which despite its environmental benefits, ends up in landfills and incinerators due to a lack of waste disposal options for consumers. A "green" nudge campaign was launched by UNEP in 2020 for HE institutions, a sector with 208.6 million students (average of 2.67 t CO2e per student). Behavioural interventions, however, are not always straightforward and typically focus on conventional plastics.

This research will test and estimate the potential of a nudging recycling intervention on bioplastic disposal in an enclosed setting (educational/workplace) by coupling social experiments with an agent-based model. Coventry University will be used as an "open laboratory" to conduct the study, allowing qualitative data (observational and interview data) to be collected. These data are critical for simulating and calibrating recycling behaviour scenarios.