Influences on single-use and reusable cup use: a multidisciplinary mixed-methods approach to designing interventions...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Sustainability Studies

Background:

• Billions of single-use coffee cups are discarded annually in the UK, contributing significantly to landfill and incineration due to difficult-to-recycle plastic-lined paper.
• The widespread use of single-use coffee cups represents a significant environmental challenge, necessitating targeted behavior change strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systematic methodology for identifying behavioral influences on single-use versus reusable cup selection.
• To provide a framework for designing effective behavior change interventions aimed at reducing coffee cup waste.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour (COMB) model to structure research.
• Developed and applied an online survey and follow-up interviews to gather data on cup usage behaviors.
• Employed the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to link research findings to intervention strategy selection.

Main Results:

• Identified key barriers and enablers influencing the choice between single-use and reusable cups in a university setting.
• Demonstrated the practical application of the developed methodology in a real-world context.
• Provided detailed guidance on study material development, data collection, and analysis for behavioral research.

Conclusions:

• The presented methodology offers a robust approach to understanding and influencing pro-environmental behaviors related to coffee cup consumption.
• This work provides valuable tools and guidance for researchers and practitioners in developing and implementing effective behavior change interventions.
• The study highlights the importance of theoretical frameworks in designing transparent and effective strategies to mitigate environmental impacts from consumer behavior.