Zero Waste Scotland | Causes of Litter and Flytipping: a behavioural systems mapping project

Zero Waste Scotland, in collaboration with the Centre of Behaviour Change, conducted research to map the factors influencing littering and flytipping behaviours. By engaging a wide range of stakeholders and reviewing existing literature, the study aimed to gain deeper insight into how these behaviours can be prevented.  

The research revealed 191 behavioural influences, ranging from individual-level factors like convenience, social norms, and lack of awareness, to structural barriers such as inadequate disposal options and weak deterrents. It found that many of these influences are not yet being addressed. Effective prevention requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach tailored to different contexts. The COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation) helped clarify the complexity behind these behaviours and emphasised the need for diverse and targeted interventions, especially in addressing opportunity and motivation for littering and understanding more about flytipping prevention. 

Source: www.zerowastescotland.org.uk