More than nine in ten (93%) UK adults want to see more done by businesses to protect the environment, with the onus first and foremost on companies improving the recyclability of their packaging.
According to the new research from not-for-profit, Every Can Counts, 90% of UK adults think that companies should only use packaging that is infinitely recyclable, with a similar amount (91%) believing that firms should be held responsible for the packaging they select.
Comparatively, less than 7 in 10 (65%) believe consumers should be held responsible for the packaging they buy, proving that it is businesses that are being held accountable for making a change.
However, consumers are committed to supporting the initiatives available to them to protect the environment, with 76% of people prioritising reducing waste and 69% encouraging individuals to recycle more.
When it comes to recycling at home, two-thirds (67%) of Brits surveyed say they always recycle their drink cans – though that means a third (33%) still aren’t in the habit of doing so.
Recycling rates also drop dramatically when out of the home, with only 32% of people placing their drink cans in recycling bins when at work, and 31% when out and about.
Perhaps improved recycling infrastructure could go some way in resolving the problem, with 61% saying they would like more recycling bins in public areas and 48% favouring implementing deposit return schemes.
Every Can Counts commissioned the research to coincide with its International Recycling Tour which will take place in 17 countries to mark World Environment Day, aiming to raise awareness of drink can recycling and encourage people to keep public outdoor spaces clean.
Chris Latham-Warde, Programme Manager for Every Can Counts, said: “Drink cans are infinitely recyclable. This is the main message of our International Recycling Tour and the reason why we are working to inspire behaviour change and help reach 100% can recycling in Europe and beyond.
“This ambitious target can only be reached if consumers, brands, event organisers and local communities join forces to recycle every drink can, working together to build a more sustainable planet.”
The International Recycling Tour’s goal is to remind people that keeping public outdoor spaces clean is a collaborative effort. Small everyday acts, like proper waste disposal, can help us all towards a more sustainable living and a healthier planet.
With this in mind, more than 100 recycling ambassadors will roam parks, cities, and beaches, donning their vibrant backpacks to help raise awareness of drink can recycling in the following countries: Austria, Brazil, Colombia, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
