Austrians also pay attention to separating their waste while on vacation. This was revealed in a representative survey conducted by Marketagent on behalf of the Association of Austrian Waste Management Companies (VOEB). According to a VOEB press release on Friday, 85 percent of respondents would like to see more waste separation bins in public spaces and holiday accommodations. Many people are unsure how to properly separate waste when abroad.
The survey was conducted from the end of May to early June, polling 1,000 individuals between the ages of 14 and 75. The results show that people from western Austria are more likely to actively separate waste: 82 percent in Tyrol and Vorarlberg, and 81 percent in Salzburg. In Vienna, only 59 percent of respondents said they are careful about waste separation even while on vacation. “To ensure successful waste separation during holidays, we need to provide simple solutions and sorting options in hotels, private accommodations, and tourist areas. Affected municipalities are called upon to make it as easy as possible for guests to separate waste,” said VOEB President Gabriele Jüly in the statement.
Waste Separation Abroad Often Unclear
Proper waste disposal can be more difficult abroad: 71 percent of respondents agreed that they are often unsure how to correctly separate waste in other countries. Still, half of those surveyed said they try to learn the local rules and act accordingly. Due to high mobility and growing environmental awareness, Jüly emphasized the need to expand waste separation options abroad and in tourist hotspots. According to the VOEB, two neighboring countries serve as role models: Italy is expanding its four-bin system in public areas, while in Slovenia it is possible to properly dispose of batteries and electronic devices at public collection points.
The study also found differences among age groups. In total, 29 percent of respondents said they generate more waste while on vacation than at home. Among Gen Z respondents, nearly half agreed with this statement, compared to only eight percent of Baby Boomers. Older people generally showed greater mindfulness regarding both waste reduction and proper separation.
