Modelling of Consumer Behaviour for Deposit Systems in Collection of Empty Cans and Bottles

Akio Kondo*, Ken-ichi Yoshida** and Michihisa Oda***
* Department of Ecosystem Engneering, Graduate School of
Engineering, The University of Tokushima
** Nihon Funen Ltd.
*** Matsuyama Municipal office
+ Correspondence should be addressed to Akio Kondo:
(2-1 Minamijosanjima-cho, Tokushima-city, Tokushima, 770-8506 Japan)

Abstract
This study aims to build consumer behaviour models which can analyze changes in consumer behaviour when deposit systems are introduced in the collection of empty cans and bottles. First, consumer behaviour models using three kinds of methodology(the refund method, the encouragement method and their conbination method)in deposit systems are derived from utility maximization thoery. Second, parameters in the models are estimated using data gathered through a cosumer survey. The survey, consisting of a guestionnaire, also investigated the effects of oleposit systems. The estimates produced three model, which provied to be sufficiently significant statistically. The models found satisfactorilly explain and predict the number of cans and bottles to be purchased as well as to be returned when deposit systems are introduced. These models can be applied to analyze the benefits to consumers, local governments and enterprises arising from the introduction of deposit systems.

Key words: cans and bottles, collection, deposit systems, utility maximization, consumer behaviour model