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Trust in municipal government and recycling behavior

Author

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  • Maria Carmela Aprile

    (University of Naples Parthenope)

  • Damiano Fiorillo

    (University of Naples Parthenope)

Abstract

This paper contributes to the literature on institutional trust by examining the relationship between household waste recycling behavior and two key dimensions of local governance: trust in municipal governments and the perceived quality of the municipal public services. Using data from the Italian National Statistical Office’s Aspects of Daily Life survey (2018–2021), we investigate whether higher levels of trust in local institutions and more positive evaluations of the services provided are associated with greater engagement in recycling practices. We use non-linear regression models and carry out robustness checks to test the consistency of the results. The findings reveal a positive and statistically significant correlation between trust in municipal governments and recycling behavior, whereas trust in other public institutions—such as the European Parliament, the national Parliament, and regional governments—shows no significant association. These associations are more pronounced in Northern Italy compared to Central and Southern Italy, and in the years preceding the COVID-19 pandemic. The perceived quality of the municipal public services also highlights a consistent positive correlation with recycling behavior.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria Carmela Aprile & Damiano Fiorillo, 2025. "Trust in municipal government and recycling behavior," Economics of Governance, Springer, vol. 26(4), pages 625-650, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ecogov:v:26:y:2025:i:4:d:10.1007_s10101-025-00341-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10101-025-00341-3
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    JEL classification:

    • C31 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models; Quantile Regressions; Social Interaction Models
    • C35 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions
    • C83 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Survey Methods; Sampling Methods
    • C87 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Econometric Software
    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • H44 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - Publicly Provided Goods: Mixed Markets
    • Q57 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Ecological Economics
    • Z00 - Other Special Topics - - General - - - General

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