Self-reported behaviours and measures related to plastic waste reduction: European citizens' perspective

Waste Manag Res. 2023 Sep;41(9):1460-1468. doi: 10.1177/0734242X231159841. Epub 2023 Mar 15.

Abstract

Consumer attitudes and behaviour regarding consumption of plastic goods and proper waste management are of importance for reducing plastic and microplastic (MP) pollution. Therefore, based on Eurobarometer survey, this study aims to analyse European attitudes and behaviour related to plastic pollution reduction. Europeans acknowledge marine and river pollution as important environmental problems and are worried about plastics and MP environmental impacts. However, this does not translate into related plastic reduction behaviours. Regression analysis show that analysed behaviours are likely to be undertaken by women, younger, with higher incomes respondents and by those who express higher worry about plastic and MP environmental impacts. Industry and big companies are seen as having the main role in reducing plastic waste and littering, chargers for single use plastics being less important. Respondents also stress the role of education. Hence, focus on concrete steps to reduce plastic waste, highlighting the interaction of individual actions and environment should be given.

Keywords: Europe; Waste; microplastics; perception; plastics; pro-environmental behaviour.

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Environmental Pollution
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Plastics
  • Self Report
  • Waste Management*
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical* / analysis

Substances

  • Plastics
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical