Unfortunately, I could not find a feasible policy experiment relating to my thesis. Instead, I teamed up with four other classmates on a different project. For our policy experiment, we were interested if the color of recycling bin affected how often Ex Libris customers recycle. We observed the recycling bins of the café on four separate days (Tuesday through Friday) during peak lunchtime hours (12-1 pm). For the last two days (Thursday and Friday) we introduced a new, brightly orange-colored recycling bin to replace the regular blue bin which was used as the control variable on Tuesday and Wednesday. Our observers took notes about which customers chose to recycle and which customers used the trashcan for recyclable items.
Before the policy experiment, I was worried about potential bias and the limited amount of observations that would recorded in four days. Additionally, I was concerned that other people in Ex Libris would think the observers were a bit creepy and their behavior would be affected by the presence of the observers.
Looking back at our policy experiment, I thoroughly enjoyed designing, creating and introducing a treatment variable with possible policy implications. I found that our observations about the change in recycling (or lack of) helped us think of new ways to change behavior in individuals who choose not to recycle. I also had a lot of fun painting and decorating the recycling bin.
