Household Recycling and Consumption Work - Social and Moral Economies

Recycling is high on the global economic agenda, with governments across the world pledging increases in their recycling rates. However, success in reaching targets often relies on the input and effort of the household and consumer. This comparative study of household recycling in Sweden and England shows that by sorting their waste, consumers perform an integral role in the overall division of labour within waste management processes. 'Consumption work' has not been systematically explored as a distinctive form of labour, and this book argues that treating it seriously requires revision of the conventional approach to the division of labour. Exploring the shaping of this 'consumption work' by systems of provision and moral economies, Wheeler and Glucksmann reveal how consumers are differentially persuaded to contribute to recycling schemes.