Chapter 8: Effecting Behaviour Change with Collaborative Education – Comparative Analysis from Colorado Case Studies

Chapter 8 examines the challenges and innovative strategies involved in urban recycling, specifically within Denver, Colorado’s densely populated multi-family complexes. It highlights the region’s struggle with low recycling rates, exacerbated by socio-economic disparities, regulatory hurdles, and technical challenges. The chapter emphasises the importance of holistic approaches to waste prevention and landfill diversion, showcasing the broad benefits of recycling for environmental conservation, economic growth, and social progress. The concept of collaborative design for developing tailored recycling strategies is explored through case studies. The chapter proposes tailored strategies to boost recycling participation, overcoming obstacles such as space limitations, waste segregation issues, and diverse resident populations. Comprehensive case studies suggest a pathway towards sustainability by integrating economic benefits, environmental protection, and social well-being, advocating for enhanced governance and stakeholder engagement to navigate urban recycling complexities.