Public Perception towards Plastic Pollution in the Marine Ecosystems of Sri Lanka

Ahalya Arulnayagam^1,

¹Department of Marine Bioscience and Environment, Korea Maritime and Ocean University, Busan, South Korea

Cite this paper:
Ahalya Arulnayagam. Public Perception towards Plastic Pollution in the Marine Ecosystems of Sri Lanka. American Journal of Marine Science. 2020; 8(1):6-13. doi: 10.12691/marine-8-1-2

Abstract

Plastic pollution has become a pervasive environmental issue and has gained considerable attention recently. Plastics have redefined more life more easy and sophisticated but has left harmful imprints behind. The intensity of plastic pollution along the coastal areas of Sri Lanka has been rising during the past decade that requires immediate action. Advocating for behavioral changes from society remains a daunting task that acknowledges their lifestyle. This research paper aimed to gain an understanding on the public perception towards marine plastic pollution. Questionnaire was used to accurately capture and reflect the perceptions by the coastal communities living in areas with enriched marine ecosystems. The results from the study showed that Sri Lankan people have a generally more negative perception towards single-use plastics; a high level of awareness towards their impacts on marine environment; and a strong willingness to reduce their consumption of single-use plastic. Based on the findings, recommendations emphasized the need to incentivize reusable plastic bags, promote awareness and advocacy pertaining to the marine environmental concerns of single-use plastics and further investigate the potential of a plastic ban in Sri Lanka. This research can contribute towards developing adequate, appropriate strategies to address the issues of single-use plastics and marine conservation.

Keywords:
single-use plastic Sri Lanka plastic pollution marine environment conservation

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