Perception of Plastic Waste Management Policy and Plastic Waste Management Behaviors of Generation Y Consumers

Abstract

            The objectives of this research were (1) to study the perception of the policy on plastic waste management of Generation Y consumers and (2) to study Generation Y consumers behavior on plastic waste management beverage purchases. Data were collected through questionnaires, sample group of beverage consumers in the Generation Y (23- 42 aged in 2022) in Pathum-Wan District, Bangkok, 400 sample. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution statistics, percentage, mean and presented in the form of tables and descriptions

             The results shown that the majority of the sampled were females, 22-26 aged, average income 10,001 - 20,000 baht/month, bachelor degree, buying beverage 3-4 times/week, 4-6 drinks /week.  Beverage garbage management after consumption, most of them were thrown into the trash without sorting. The channel for perception of plastic waste management policy, the most from Social media (67.50%), TV (53.75%) and point of purchase (46%) respectively. Policy acknowledgement on plastic bag reducing (86%) more than plastic straw reducing (79%), Styrofoam food box (69%) and plastic mug (63.25%), respectively. 57.25% of samples were affected by policy. and 65.75% want to learn more about plastic waste management policy through social media, TV and radio. Plastic waste management behavior of sample in overall were moderate level. Reuse behavior was the most average, reject and reduce behavior, respectively. Behavior of reusing plastic bags more than plastic mugs and plastic straws, respectively. Behavior of reducing plastic straws more than plastic bags and plastic straws, respectively. Behavior of rejecting plastic bags more than plastic straws, respectively. The suggestion is that relevant organization should publicized the policy in order to understand plastic waste management through social media. and  study about factors in influencing perceptions of policy.