Community Perceptions of Plastic Pollution and Pro-Environmental Behaviour in Western Tamil Nadu, India

IJEP 46(3): 245-254 : Vol. 46 Issue. 3 (March 2026)

Full Text

S. Saravanakumar1, A. Arumugam2, S. Ravi3, R. Mayakkannan4 and S. Vijayanand3*

1. Government Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Department of Business Administration, Salem – 636 007, Tamil nadu, India
2. Vel Tech University, Department of Commerce, Chennai – 600 062, Tamil nadu, India
3. Government Arts and Science College, Department of Management Studies, Idappadi, Salem – 637 102, Tamil nadu, India
4. Sri Sankara Arts and Science College, P.G. and Research Department of Commerce, Kanchipuram – 631 561, Tamil nadu, India

Abstract

Plastic is a synthetic organic polymer used in almost all areas and the accumulation of this material adversely affects human and wildlife habitats. Nowadays, the negative externalities of plastic consumption have received significant societal attention. People are aware of the consequences of using plastic and its impact on the environment, but routine habits remain unchanged. This study explores societal perceptions of plastic pollution through subjective norms, attitude and behaviour, knowledge and behavioural intentions, as well as their impact on pro-environmental behaviour. For this purpose, individuals living in western region of Tamil Nadu, India, were considered the population and about 446 respondents were selected through convenience sampling. The results revealed that behavioural intention mediates the relationship between human perception and pro-environmental behaviour. All factors were found to be statistically and significantly associated, but no significant relationship was observed between human perception and pro-environmental behaviour. The government needs to address this issue by raising awareness about the impact of plastic pollution and implementing strict monitoring. Personal self-awareness alone can help eliminate this hazardous effect on society.

Keywords

Attitude, Behavioural intention, Bio-polymer, Recycling process, Waste management

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