Knowledge, concerns and attitudes towards plastic pollution: An empirical study of public perceptions in Portugal

Abstract

While the harmful effects of different types of plastic particles have been increasingly reported, studies on public perceptions and behaviors related to plastic pollution may be considered limited. The present study aims to assess the general public's knowledge, awareness, and concern about plastic pollution in different environmental compartments (air, water, and soil) and assess recycling behaviors. For this, a large representative sample was considered (over 1000 participants), composed of members of different genders, levels of education, and age groups. Overall, the results showed that participants were aware of plastic pollution in many environmental compartments, although they reported being more concerned about the marine and land environments than the air. Participants' levels of concern about the plastic problem were influenced by age and level of education, with older participants and those with lower educational levels attributing less importance to recycling as a means of tackling the plastic problem. Women are more likely to adopt plastic alternatives and engage in recycling practices than men. Data allowed the identification of priority sociodemographic characteristics of communities that should be targeted in education and awareness-raising activities.