A study of UTHM students’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions on plastic and microplastics

Alya Aqilah Mohamad; Ruhi Athirah Kahar Aliman; Norain Ahmad Nordin.

The study aims to assess the knowledge of plastic and microplastic pollution as well as the issues, determine students' attitudes and perceptions about the best practices for reducing plastic and microplastic pollution, and analyze the correlation between awareness, attitude, and opinion on the current efforts to decrease plastic pollution among UTHM students. An online survey was distributed over social media platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Four sections were utilized to collect data: demographic information; knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about plastic and microplastic pollution. The 120 students who responded were 60 from each diploma and degree program. UTHM students showed a great awareness of plastic and microplastics, and as a result, they had a favorable attitude toward pollution reduction. Consequently, participants also had a positive opinion of current initiatives to reduce plastic and microplastic contamination. Besides, a moderate positive correlation exists between attitude and opinion on current efforts with a Pearson correlation of 0.574, implying that students should be taught plastic reduction and encouraged to participate in current initiatives. Plastic or microplastic pollution education via organized education, mass media, and substituting non-biodegradable plastics with eco-friendly alternatives may assist in alleviating the existing problem of plastic or microplastic pollution.

KEYWORDS: Awareness; Plastic pollution; Microplastic pollution; Correlation; Recycling



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