Environmental Pollution Caused By Plastic Products-Awareness, Attitude And Its Usage And Recycling- A Cross Sectional Study In An Urban Area In Chengelpet District

Abstract

Background: Plastic pollution poses a significant environmental and public health threat, exacerbated in urban India by rapid urbanization and inadequate waste management. This study assesses awareness, attitudes, behaviors, and recycling practices related to plastic pollution among adults in an urban area of Chengelpet district, Tamil Nadu.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Anakaputhur, involving 320 adult participants selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire, and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 to determine descriptive statistics and associations between demographic factors and study outcomes.

Results: The study found that 66.9% of participants had good knowledge of plastic pollution, 61.9% demonstrated positive plastic usage behavior, and 52.8% held positive attitudes. Recycling awareness was observed in 60% of participants, and 69.7% expressed a willingness to reduce plastic use. Significant associations were noted between gender and attitude, occupation and recycling behavior, and age and willingness to reduce plastic use. 

Conclusion: While awareness and willingness to reduce plastic use were relatively high, a gap exists between knowledge and practice. Targeted interventions are needed to address demographic-specific barriers and promote sustainable behaviors to mitigate plastic pollution in urban settings.