| dc.description.abstract | Disposable hot cups are associated with various environmental problems including
increased pressure on landfills caused by their disposal. The objective of this study is to support
decision-making for improved waste diversion opportunities for disposable hot cups in HRM, by
developing a better understanding of the drivers and barriers to the implementation of in-house
diversion programs. This was undertaken by interviewing ten NS Regional Waste Management
Offices’ managers/coordinators, six recycling/composting facilities, and twelve purposively
selected coffee shop owners/managers in HRM. Both policy and technical issues were identified
as exterior challenges, particularly from the operational perspectives. Interior barriers included
cost, no control of internal decision-making (e.g., franchisee being directed by head office), not
enough incentives, no perceived economic benefits, and limited customer engagement. However,
there were perceived environmental benefits (e.g., waste reduction) for those that implemented
internal diversion programs. Additional motivating factors included environmental obligations,
financial support, corporate initiatives, customers’ demand, and public pressure. Ultimately, it
was found that it is feasible to divert coffee cups in some regions, but further technical
evaluations and policy alignment are needed before they can be easily diverted in HRM.
Key Words
Coffee cups, In-house waste diversion program, End-of-life options, Recycling, Composting,
Landfill, Waste reduction. | en_US |
