The University of North Texas, in collaboration with the Texas chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America (TxSWANA), is conducting a research project targeting recycling behaviors in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Led by Jamie Johnson, a senior lecturer in anthropology at UNT, the project seeks to address recycling contamination and improve local recycling practices.
Initiated in 2022 as part of a master’s-level anthropology course, the study involves graduate students conducting surveys and interviews with residents throughout North Texas. The primary focus is to understand recycling habits and the prevalence of contamination, which occurs when improper materials, such as food and liquids, disrupt the recycling process and contribute to landfill burden.
Contamination not only fills landfills but poses risks at materials reclamation facilities (MRF), where human workers sort recyclables. Non-compliant materials may endanger workers and damage equipment. Johnson’s team initially concentrated on multi-family households, shifting attention to single-family homes over subsequent years, identifying “contaminated routes” with consistently high contamination levels.
Through qualitative analysis of collected data, the project seeks to educate communities on proper recycling to reduce “wishcycling,” or recycling inappropriate items. Recommendations include clearer recycling guidelines and improved communication strategies tailored to various communities.
Brian Boerner, president of TxSWANA and Denton’s Director of Solid Waste, emphasized the project’s significance. It provides actionable insights to refine local recycling programs and improve overall sanitation, supporting both environmental and municipal goals.
Hannah Morrison, a graduate student at UNT, participated in the project’s early phase, extending her research to cities like Dallas and Denton. Her involvement has deepened her commitment to urban-focused environmental research, shaping her academic and career aspirations towards consulting.
The UNT project not only aims to reduce the environmental footprint but also enhances municipal budget efficiency, offering potential benefits for surrounding communities in North Texas.