Assessment of barriers preventing recycling practices among bars and eateries in central South Africa

English: Recycling is an important aspect of a sustainable society and depends largely on the willingness of consumers to participate in this practice. Some regions in South Africa (SA) recycle actively, but nothing yet in the central part of the country. The area selected for this study included Bloemfontein, Welkom, Bethlehem, Clarens, Kroonstad, and Kimberley, which are all located in the central part of SA. Eateries and bars are businesses that generate a large amount of recyclable solid waste in terms of glass, plastic, paper, polystyrene, metal, and compostable items. By identifying the barriers preventing these businesses from recycling, the local municipalities and recycling services could create a solution. Owners or employees of eateries and bars completed a self-administered questionnaire. Empirical data was obtained on knowledge of recycling, participation in recycling. Likert scale type questions were used to identify barriers that prevent recycling practices, also to determine motives that could encourage the implementation of recycling programs. The respondents indicated a willingness to recycle if there is a financial benefit, as well as support offered by the municipality or government. Respondent’s knowledge regarding recycling seem to be positive although their attitude and willingness tend to be more negative. Barriers that prevent recycling practices included implementation effort and cost, as well as lack of knowledge thereof. Only a small number of respondents were aware of buy-back centres (BBC) or collection services. These results indicate that these businesses do not grasp the impact that they can have with their recycling contributions and that the giveback would be worth the effort. They are also unaware of the services available to assist with implementation and practices of a recycling plan. The municipality and government would have to get involved by enforcing businesses to comply with recycling laws that should be implemented. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with BBC in Bloemfontein. Results showed that the BBC are willing to reach an agreement with the eateries and bars, should they start to recycle more effectively.