The Effect of Social Norm Nudges on Littering in Dutch University Campus Buildings
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22006121 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Evita Goossens (0009-0005-5713-3191, Erasmus University Rotterdam, corresponding author), Elric Tendron (0000-0003-2342-5581, Erasmus University Rotterdam), Inge Merkelbach (0000-0003-2492-6871, Erasmus University Rotterdam) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Publication date | 2026-01-01 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | SAGE Open (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2158-2440 • E-ISSN: 2158-2440 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/21582440251406558 |
| OpenAlex | W7128743757 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 33 |
Fostering a sense of belonging and a positive atmosphere in tertiary education impacts student motivation and persistence, with campus environments playing a crucial role. Littering can disrupt this experience, making it important to address. This study used a quantitative approach to examine the effects of social norm interventions on littering at a Dutch university campus. Conducted in two buildings, the experiment included daily litter measurements. One building received a social norm intervention using persuasive communication, while the other served as a control. Litter levels were measured at baseline, post-intervention and seven months later, analyzed using logistic regression. Trashcan presence was noted. Littering decreased significantly in the treatment building (63% vs. 23% post-intervention, 28% follow-up). The treatment effect was significant at post and follow-up measurements, showing short- and long-term behavior change. Trashcan proximity affected the intervention at follow-up. Social factors play a key role in reducing littering. Future research should explore the dynamics with physical disposal opportunities further
Nudge theory · Psychological intervention · Social influence · Social norms approach · University campus · Educational Environments and Student Outcomes · Indoor Air Quality and Microbial Exposure · Urban Green Space and Health
How effective is nudging? A quantitative review on the effect sizes and limits of empirical nudging studies
Through the Eyes of Students
The Teenage Brain
Interventions to Break and Create Consumer Habits
Implementation Intention and Action Planning Interventions in Health Contexts
The theory of planned behavior
Relationship between Impulsiveness and Deviant Behavior among Adolescents in the Classroom
Putting nudges in perspective
Considering research paradigms in environmental education
Understanding Change in Recycling and Littering Behavior Across a School Social Network
The "What" and "Why" of Goal Pursuits
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |