Plastic recycling challenges in the home environment

Finland's household plastic recycling rate is currently below the EU's 2025 targets. Taking laundry detergent packaging as an example case, this chapter presents the findings from interviews with Finnish residents on their plastic recycling behavior. The key challenges to recycling identified are limited storage space for recyclables, distant recycling facilities, unclear sorting instructions, and packaging designs that are difficult to recycle. These factors highlight the need for recycling-friendly product design and accessible recycling infrastructure. The study also identified consumer preferences for environmentally friendly products. Our findings highlight the need for integrated efforts from manufacturers, policymakers, and the community to enhance product design and recycling systems, emphasizing the importance of clear labeling and education to promote sustainable practices.