In new survey Canadians tell us how to increase recycling rate of cartons

TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - A recent survey, commissioned by the Carton Council of Canada (CCC) covering residents of Quebec and Ontario, reveals measures that would encourage consumers to place more food and beverage cartons in the recycling bin.

Among respondents who don't regularly recycle their food and beverage cartons, sixty-two percent say access to information enabling them to easily identify what is or isn't recyclable would encourage them to recycle more. Thirty-nine percent say that better understanding the benefits of carton recycling would motivate them.

"The survey reinforced the fact that Canadians believe in recycling, with nearly ¾ of the respondents saying that "recycling is important and people should try to make it a priority", explains Isabelle Faucher, Managing Director of the CCC. "The positive attitude towards recycling already exists and indicates that if we provide the right information to residents and motivate them, we can grow carton recycling rates."

In the same survey, respondents identified the main barriers to recycling food and beverage containers. Lack of knowledge and awareness ranked at the top whereas logistical barriers (the bin is too full) or lack of commitment (I'm not into recycling) were much less significant.

"The CCC remains committed to growing carton recycling in Canada. This survey is part of our drive to actively seek solutions to sustainably increase recycling rates in Canada," says Mrs. Faucher.

The survey was based on a voluntary online questionnaire. Two thousand adults, equally divided between men and women, half of them in Ontario and half in Quebec, took part in the study. Participation was restricted to those with curbside recycling.

About the Carton Council of Canada
The Carton Council of Canada is composed of the leading carton manufacturing companies in Canada, including Elopak, Evergreen Packaging, SIG Combibloc and Tetra Pak. Formed in 2010, the Carton Council works to deliver long-term collaborative solutions in order to divert valuable cartons from disposal. Through a united effort, the Carton Council is committed to raising awareness, promoting best practices and ensuring adequate policy measures with the ongoing goal of increasing carton recycling. For more information, visit www.recyclecartons.ca.

SOURCE Carton Council of Canada