Re‐examining the effects of aging on household recycling behavior: A study in France
Abstract
While age is the variable most often used to explain household recycling behavior,research findings reveal only limited or contradictory effects. This study demonstratesthe utility of several additional variables related to age in regard to explaining the effectof aging on household recycling behavior. These variables are generativity, availabletime, and perceived skills. By drawing on the theory of planned behavior, this paperoffers a model that clarifies how age indirectly influences household recycling behavior.The model is tested on a stratified sample, and the results are analyzed throughmediation tests and structural equation modeling. While aging is associated with lowerlevels of enthusiasm for recycling, more skills and available time allow recycling to beaccomplished with increased ease. Finally, the results enable an explanation of theprevious contradictory results about age effects and lead to managerial and societalrecommendations on how household recycling can be effectively promote.