Research Symposium

BIO

Savanah Venter is a 2nd year Environmental Science undergraduate student with a minor in Spanish. She has interest in researching issues that can help advance sustainability and aid in many of our current environmental concerns. She is from Parkland, Florida and wants to possibly pursue a career in environmental advising, resource management, or sustainability management.

Social Enterprise Pathways for Advancing Recycling and Upcycling Behaviors in Local Communities

Abstract

As global waste challenges intensify, this study aims to investigate how residents and college students can transform household recycling practices into socially entrepreneurial initiatives that advance circular economy (CE) goals. The research focuses on three key areas: (1) how public awareness, education, and community engagement influence household recycling behaviors and the creation of local upcycling businesses; (2) which waste materials pose the greatest challenges for recycling or upcycling, and how communities can develop innovative, socially entrepreneurial strategies for their reuse; and (3) how recycling and upcycling processes can complement one another to strengthen CE outcomes, protect the environment, and empower local communities. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Following a literature review and three pilot tests, a survey questionnaire was developed that included demographic items, open-ended questions, and multiple-choice questions. A qualitative component was also incorporated through in-depth, one-on-one interviews with participants (n = 13 females, n = 8 males, n = 5 others; average age = 20). Each interview will be conducted in person and will last approximately 25 minutes. Survey responses will be analyzed using Qualtrics and qualitative content analysis. Findings from this study will provide insights into community-driven recycling practices, opportunities for social entrepreneurship in upcycling, and strategies for strengthening circular economy initiatives through education, engagement, and innovative reuse solutions.

Keywords: Recycling, upcycling, social enterprise, circular economy, recycling behavior