Determinants of an Environmental Horticulture Firm’s Recycle Process in terms of type and quantity: the Case of Georgia

Environmental horticulture firms provide a variety of commercial/residential landscape products and services encompassing ornamental plant production, design, installation, and maintenance. The companies generate tons of waste including plastic containers, trays, and greenhouse/field covers, creating the need to reduce and utilize plastic waste. Based on survey data collected in Georgia in 2013, this paper investigates determinants of the environmental horticulture firms’ recycling decision (plastic containers, flats, and greenhouse poly) as well as factors influencing total quantity of recyclable materials discarded by firms. Our findings indicate that the decision to discard vs. recycle plastic containers, flats, and greenhouse poly is significantly influenced by firm scope, size, location, and partnership with recycling providers, as well as whether recycling providers offer additional waste pickup services. In terms of total quantity of discarded waste, high revenue firms with a focus on landscape maintenance and plant nurseries are found to throw away more recyclable materials compared to firms with another business focus. Insights from this study are of use to local governments and environmental organizations interested in increasing horticultural firm participation in recycling programs and lowering the volume of plastic destined for landfills.