As part of an ongoing effort to increase recycling rates in its member communities, in February the Tunxis Recycling Operating Committee (TROC) contracted with Aceti Associates to conduct a comprehensive marketing research study to determine where improvements need to be made in the towns’ curbside recycling programs. Preliminary results of the survey were positive overall, as respondents, especially those living in single family homes, expressed a high level of acceptance and understanding of the region’s recycling program. “Over the next several weeks we will evaluate the survey data to determine the public education strategies we need to enhance or implement in order to motivate residents to recycle more than they currently do,” said Marilynn Cruz-Aponte, chairperson of TROC’s Public Education Committee. “For example, the research indicated that more than half the respondents don’t have instructions for curbside recycling; nearly half do not know how to obtain a recycling bin; and more than 70 percent mistakenly believe or don’t know if there is a fee for a new recycling bin. While we currently advertise extensively in local newspapers, distribute flyers and get the word out through our Web site, the results of the market survey will help us be even more effective in educating the public.”