Administrators’ insights into uncovering hidden littering motivations and challenges in behavior change

Tackling littering in public spaces poses a global challenge with significant environmental, social, and economic implications. This study explores the motivational influences and the barriers to altering littering behavior among educational and operational administrators in Israel. Using the Iceberg Model, Theory U, and the Immunity to Change (ITC) framework, this research reveals the underlying factors often overlooked in littering behaviors while also exploring the practical challenges administrators face in implementing solutions. A phenomenological qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews with 52 administrators reveals the interplay of cultural, systemic, and individual factors sustaining littering behaviors. The findings emphasize the importance of self-introspection and critical scrutiny in dealing with the problem of littering while promoting individual change as well as administrative endeavors. Moreover, it proposes a shift toward understanding the underlying complexities of the problem and calls for brave, open-minded initiatives to foster significant transformation.