Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards plastic pollution among residents in a rural area of Trivandrum district

Background Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most significant environmental challenges, with severe impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Knowledge on microplastics and their long-term effects, remains limited in some regions. Many individuals still perceive plastic waste management as primarily a governmental or corporate responsibility, rather than a personal one. Although some individuals actively engage in reducing plastic consumption and participating in recycling initiatives, a large portion continues to rely on single-use plastics due to convenience, cost, and a lack of accessible alternatives. Hence this study aims to explore the level of knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards plastic pollution among residents of rural area of Trivandrum district.

Methods A cross-sectional study was done among 246 study participants through convenience sampling. A semi structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic and KAP were prepared in kobo toolbox were used to collect the data. Data was analysed using SPSS software 25.

Results Among the 246 study participants 37% were having good knowledge, 50% were having good attitude and 41% were having good practice. Majority that is 55% of the participants were of age between 18-30 years, 60% were females, 40% had education status upto higher secondary. The association with ration card colour with level of knowledge and attitude and gender with practice were found to be statistically significant.

Conclusions There is a need to increase the level of KAP towards plastic pollution to achieve a plastic free society.