From carrying a reusable water bottle to choosing clean energy, many of us try to do our bit to be more eco-friendly.
But when it comes to recycling, it seems that not all Britons are equal.
While younger generations are often perceived as the most eco-conscious, a new survey has revealed that it’s actually the Boomers who are leading the way on recycling.
Researchers from DS Smith found that 54 per cent of Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) recycle all their paper and cardboard – while just 19 per cent of Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) do so.
‘There’s no doubt that all generations want to play their part in helping the environment; the challenge is getting people to understand the role recycling plays in this,’ said Michael Orye, Managing Director of Recycling and Paper in Europe, at DS Smith.
While younger generations are often perceived as the most eco-conscious, a new survey has revealed that it’s actually the Boomers who are leading the way on recycling (stock image)
To understand how our recycling habits vary based on our age, the researchers surveyed 2,000 Britons.
Their results revealed that, across the board, our recycling skills need improving.
Sixty-four per cent of Boomers admitted to throwing something in the bin instead of recycling it because they couldn’t be bothered to clean it out.
This figure rose to a whopping 92 per cent for Gen Z, and 84 per for Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996).
Despite this, the majority of respondents rated their home recycling process as ‘top notch’.
Just 27 per cent of Boomers said they were confused about what they can and can’t recycle, with this figure rising to 53 per cent for Gen Z.
Researchers from DS Smith found that 54 per cent of Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) recycle all their paper and cardboard – while just 19 per cent of Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) do so (stock image)
‘What we’re seeing is a generational gap when it comes to recycling,’ Mr Orye said.
‘Cardboard, paper and plastic bottles frequently make it into recycling bins of older generations with younger generations only half as likely to recycle them at home.’
However, where Gen Z do excel is at calling out others for their poor recycling behaviours.
The surey found that 64 per cent of Gen Z would say something if they saw a stranger throwing away something that could have been recycled.
In contrast, just two per cent of Boomers say they would do so.
According to RecyclingBins.co.uk, British households create over 26 million tonnes of waste each year, which equates to 400kg of waste per person.
Sadly, of the 26 million tonnes of waste produced in the UK, just 12 million tonnes are recycled, while the other 14 million tonnes are sent to landfill sites.
This gives us an average recycling rate of 45 per cent.
