Waste Reward and Recognition Fund

This document describes a comprehensive evaluation of the Waste Reward and Recognition Fund, a Defra initiative aimed at promoting recycling and reuse behaviors in England. The evaluation examined 31 funded schemes using diverse methodologies, including monitoring recycling rates, in-depth case studies, and cost analysis. Results varied, with communal recycling and reuse schemes showing more promise than kerbside schemes, and direct rewards based on tonnage increase being more effective. Cost-effectiveness was mixed, with some schemes achieving savings and others being expensive due to high operational costs. The evaluation highlighted the importance of factors such as stable service provision, clear communication, early planning, and understanding the target audience for the success of such schemes. It concluded that while reward and recognition can reinforce positive waste management behaviors, they should be part of a broader strategy and require careful planning and coordination. Future recommendations include the use of control groups, robust data collection, and the potential for schemes to engage hard-to-reach groups. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation; Process evaluation
• Impact methods: Generic research method
• Process methods: Focus groups or group interviews; Individual interviews; Surveys and polling
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: April 2016

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes