Why waste sorting implementation remains ineffective: A theoretical analysis based on the generation process of waste...

Improving waste sorting performance is a crucial measure to address urban waste siege. This study aims to enhance the performance of waste sorting by examining the influencing factors of residents' sorting behaviors. Based on the A-B-C theory of emotion, we have constructed a dual mediation model. Using data from a survey of waste sorting pilot cities in China, we tested our theoretical model through regression analysis and structural equation modeling. The results indicate that external environmental factors significantly affect residents' waste sorting behavior. Individual plasticity mediates the relationship between external environmental factors and waste sorting behavior. Individual inertia plays a mediating role in the relationship between external environmental factors and waste sorting behavior. Our study sheds light on the causes of the low performance of urban waste sorting in China from the perspective of the generation process of waste sorting behavior. It offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges in waste sorting practices in China, providing valuable insights for the government in formulating waste sorting policies.