How Marine Plastic Pollution Education Develops Secondary School Students’ Sustainability Competences

Marine plastic pollution is a global environmental challenge. Providing marine plastic pollution education is essential for combating marine plastic pollution. Knowledge about biodiversity and an understanding of how biodiversity should be safeguarded should be included in education on marine plastic pollution. This study provides answers about the knowledge, understanding and attitude that Norwegian secondary school students (n = 50) have about how marine plastic pollution affects biodiversity and how biodiversity can be protected. The results from the questionnaires (pre-test and post-test) and group interviews showed that after having completed their education, over half (51.4%) of the respondents possessed adequate knowledge of and a good understanding of how biodiversity can be safeguarded and 29.7% showed a good understanding of why microplastics pose a threat to biodiversity. 35.1% provided good arguments as to why they believe their actions will make a difference. However, the results were less promising with respect to how the international community should cooperate on sustainable development. This study provides a foundation for what should be included in the education of secondary school students on marine plastic pollution, and how it should be provided.