Public attitudes towards bioplastics – knowledge, perception and end-of-life management

Abstract

Abstract The aim of this research was to understand current knowledge and perceptions regarding bioplastics. Results were gathered through an online survey of 2518 nationally representative Australians. The results indicate that the Australian public’s knowledge of bioplastics is low, but perception, particularly of biodegradable plastics, is positive. Biodegradable plastics were perceived as better for the environment than ‘normal plastics’ and even ‘easily recyclable’ plastics. The majority of respondents (58%) said they were unsure whether biodegradable plastics can have negative environmental impacts. Sixty-eight percent of people say they would like to see more of the plastic items they use be biodegradable. If this becomes the case, there will be an increased stream of bioplastics entering the recycling system with 62% of people saying they would dispose of bioplastic items in the recycling bin. In light of the results presented in this work, potential issues relating to the introduction of bioplastics are raised and the role that governments and local councils can play in driving the development of the standards, labelling and waste management options that will need to be introduced alongside the introduction of wider bioplastic materials use are discussed.