By Agbai Sharonjoyce
Garbage poses a major threat to the planet and human health. As modern societies generate more waste, the need for effective management systems grows even more urgent. Recycling is one of the most effective solutions, yet getting people’s commitment is often a challenge.
Voluntary recycling efforts often fall short, prompting governments to explore ways to push people towards better waste-sorting habits. These approaches, known as economic instruments, involve offering rewards for proper recycling or issuing fines for improper waste sorting.
But this raises an important question: Can fines truly fix negligent recycling behaviour?
The idea that penalties influence behaviour is supported by the Deterrence Theory, which proposes that people tend to follow the rules when two conditions are met: when the chances of being caught are high and when the consequences for breaking the rules are severe.
A study in China supports this idea. Researchers found out that both the certainty and severity of penalties improved residents’ ability to separate waste. Interestingly, the likelihood of being caught had a stronger impact than the size of the fine.
This suggests that if governments aim to improve waste-sorting habits, increasing enforcement and monitoring may be more effective than simply raising fines.
Further evidence comes from Kuala Lumpur, where a study found that fines helped change people’s Perceived Behavioural Control—their belief about whether recycling is difficult or inconvenient. By reducing this mental barrier, fines increased residents’ intention to recycle.
In the same vein, research from the Mid-Devon Council in the UK showed that after a fine was introduced in 2015 for incorrect waste sorting, recycling rates rose immediately and stayed above the national average throughout the study period.
Beyond fear of punishment, fines also serve as what experts call a “moral signal.” They communicate that recycling is a social duty and that failing to sort waste properly is unacceptable behaviour.
Why fines are not effective
For all their benefits, penalties are far from a perfect solution. They can also produce unintended effects. Instead of recycling because they care about the environment, people may only do so to avoid being punished, weakening long-term commitment.
Also, if the fine is too low, it becomes just another fee people are willing to pay for convenience. When recycling feels complicated or time-consuming, some people may opt for the fine instead.
Besides, charging people for waste disposal can push them towards illegal dumping, littering or burning waste—activities that are far more damaging to the environment.
What works better?
While fines can produce short-term success, they are not a stand-alone solution. Multiple studies show that convenience and clear information are far more powerful in sustaining proper recycling habits.
In the Mid-Devon case, participants revealed that their improved recycling behaviour was propelled largely by environmental concern and comprehensive information, not just the fine alone.
The bottom line
Fines can help to a degree, but they are only one piece of the puzzle. For sustainable progress, recycling policies should be complemented with strong support systems. These include simple and accessible recycling options, clear guidance for households and trusted policymakers who communicate information openly and consistently.
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