Sustainable Waste Management in Sulaymaniyah: The Impact of Consumer Awareness on Recycling Behaviour through Reverse Vending Machine
June 12, 2025
This research explores public awareness and attitudes toward Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) in Sulaymaniyah. Despite strong environmental concern and high awareness levels, actual usage remains low. The findings highlight the potential of RVMs in tackling plastic waste if supported by better accessibility, strategic placement, and targeted awareness campaigns.
research
This study examines public awareness, attitudes, and behaviors with regard to reverse vending machines (RVMs) in Sulaymaniyah to establish their viability as a sustainable waste management opportunity.
A quantitative survey of 52 participants was undertaken, focusing on demographics, level of understanding, usage behavior, motivational reasons, and views of RVM effectiveness.
Results show high levels of understanding (94%) but low usage rates (23.5%), with concern for the environment emerging as the most powerful motivation for adoption. Although payment incentives were highlighted as an element that would enhance RVM usage, a large majority (80.4%) reported a readiness to utilize RVMs even in the absence of monetary benefits.
Accessibility, strategic arrangement, and communication initiatives were identified as essential components for expanding acceptance. The findings imply that improved education and awareness, along with focused environmental messages, could greatly improve RVM involvement and help to address the region's plastic waste concerns.
