Recycling plastics & consumer behaviour

by | May 27, 2026

Circular economy
In a circular economy, products move through the Rstrategies from reuse and repair to, ultimately, recycling. While highervalue strategies remain essential, every product reaches endoflife. Recyclability is therefore a key design responsibility, but it only works if users play their part. 

Consumers influence recycling at two critical moments: when purchasing products that contain recycled materials, and when deciding whether to hand in electronics at endofuse 

Product design & Engineering
A circular system connects product development, material recovery, and user behaviour. Designers rely on highquality recycled materials and acceptance by users; recyclers rely on welldesigned products and proper return by users. Bridging the worlds of design, use, and recovery is essential to closing the loop and achieving true circularity. 

EXPLORE THE TWO DESIGN GUIDES 

This project brings together two complementary consumer behaviour guides, each addressing a key moment in the lifecycle of electrical and electronic equipment. One focuses on consumer acceptance at purchase, the other on return behaviour at endofuse. Together, they show how design can support circularity from first choice to final handin. 

Driving demand for recycled plastic

Driving demand for recycled plastic

This guide explores how consumers perceive and accept recycled plastics in electrical and electronic products. It provides insights into attitudes, expectations and concerns that influence purchasing decisions, and shows how design, communication and product choices can support trust and acceptance of recycled content. 

cover Purchase Use Return

PURCHASE USE RETURN

This practical design guide focuses on the return phase of electronic products. Using the principles of Design for Divestment, it shows how takeback systems and collection services can be designed around users, improving return experiences and increasing WEEE collection in practice.