Improving information recognition and performance of recycling chimneys

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess and improve how recyclers (individuals carrying out the task of recycling) make use of visual cues to carryout recycling tasks in relation to ‘recycling chimneys’ (repositories for recycled waste). An initial task analysis was conducted through an activity sampling study and an eye tracking experiment using a mobile eye tracker to capture fixations of recyclers during recycling tasks. Following data collection using the eye tracker, a set of recommendations for improving information representation were then identified using the widely researched skills, rules, knowledge framework, and for a comparative study to assess the performance of improved interfaces for recycling chimneys based on Ecological Interface Design principles.

Practitioner Summary: Information representation on recycling chimneys determines how we recycle waste. This study describes an eco-ergonomics-based approach to improve the design of interfaces for recycling chimneys. The results are valuable for improving the performance of waste collection processes in terms of minimising contamination and increasing the quantity of recyclables.

Keywords:

• recycling
• sustainability
• waste
• eye movement
• task analysis

Acknowledgements

The author would like to acknowledge the valuable assistance, contributions, comments and encouragements of Maxine Gore, Roger Richards, John Bassett, Jackie Powell, Ned Ashby, Mike Devonshire, Gareth Ellis, Jenni Murphy, Dr Jeffery Alcock and Prof. Ashutosh Tiwari and the Cranfield University Green Team during the preparation of this article. The useful feedback provided by the anonymous reviewers is also acknowledged and appreciated.