Litter-Ology

Book excerpt: Why On Earth Do People Litter?Imagine if all our public places were clean and free of litter. The litter in parks, beaches, shops, transport stops, waterfronts and roads wouldn't be ending up in stormwater, polluting our waterways. It would end up where it belongs - in the bin. In Litter-ology, environmental psychologists Karen Spehr and Rob Curnow share their insights gained in over 20 years working on changing people's disposal behaviour in public places. They help us understand:* Why people litter (and why they use the bin)* Who litters and how they do it* What people say about their littering is not necessarily what they do* How social norms work to prevent littering* Personal responsibility and littering* The power of rewards and sanctionsBased on up to date research evidence, Litter-ology is a highly readable guide for all those who are trying to get results in keeping their public places clean and litter free.