Starting 2 June, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in Leeuwarden is piloting a new approach to recycling aimed at making sustainability second nature. Two reverse vending machines have been installed at Rengerslaan 8 and 10, where students and staff can return deposit bottles and cans. The deposit can be instantly refunded via Tikkie or donated to the Waddenvereniging, an organisation dedicated to protecting the Wadden Sea.
The pilot is part of a larger study led by Marie Hartmann and Elena Cavagnaro from the Sustainability in Hospitality and Tourism research group at Hotel Management School Leeuwarden. Their work explores how design and behavioural science can be used to gently nudge people toward greener decisions — without making them feel forced.
Early findings suggest that a well-designed return option with clear instructions really makes a difference.
The machines were provided by Statiegeld Nederland, the national deposit system organisation, in support of this research. While the vending machines themselves are a temporary fixture, the ultimate aim is lasting change: reducing waste by fostering habits like reusing bottles and cups.
The initiative reflects NHL Stenden’s broader commitment to sustainable innovation through practical, research-driven action.
For more insights into the research, see: https://creatingwhatsnext.com/research/statiegeld/