Social research about illegal dumping
An assessment of attitudes and behaviour amongst multi unit dwelling residents in relation to illegal dumping
Many councils have long faced the problem of illegal dumping around multi unit dwellings (MUDs).
Because knowledge about illegal dumping attitudes and behaviour was based on anecdotal evidence only, the Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (DECC), formally the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) considered it critical to collect information that could be used to both assist in the development of a proposed prevention program, as well as provide a benchmark for future measurement.
A comprehensive social research study was commissioned by the DECC to examine the attitudes and behaviour of residents in relation to illegal dumping.
The study included owners, short and long term tenants, public housing tenants and tenants from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Assessment of attitudes and behaviour amongst
multi unit dwelling residents in relation to illegal dumping
Social research study - Summary (SPD_GOV_0504_MUDRes.pdf; 182kb).
Social research study - Full Report (SPD_GOV_0504_MUDResRpt.pdf; 434kb).
The study explores:
- How concerned people are about illegal dumping
- Where does it rate as a priority in peoples lives
- Knowledge and awareness of appropriate disposal options
- What is seen as "acceptable" and what is not
- Views on the effectiveness or perceived problems of disposal options
- Views on council responsibilities and actions toward dumping
- Views on fines, enforcement and the likelihood of being "caught"
- Language or other cultural barriers that may impact on behaviour or awareness of what to do with unwanted items
- Awareness, perceptions and behaviours
- Views on effectiveness and appropriateness of council waste management information
- Understanding the decision making process and triggers surrounding dumping
- The situational triggers regarding the need for households to get rid of materials
- Information useful to plan the targeting and timing of communication and education campaigns
- The best channels and means of delivery of information amongst the various target groups
- (brochures, local paper, Council, internet, community centre, etc)
More information
Contact: Sustainability Programs Division.
Page last updated: 26 February 2011
