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The degree of awareness of the risk of microplastic particles/people’s perception in taking preventive measures for this type of risk
Summary
This study surveyed public awareness of microplastic risks and perceptions around taking protective measures, finding that knowledge levels were variable and that most people had limited understanding of exposure routes and health implications. The authors call for targeted public communication campaigns to increase risk awareness.
Microplastic particle (Mps) pollution is and will continue to be threatening to the entire planet. There is still no clear and complete information about the effects of Mps. In the field of research, the data held so far is enough to have reasons for concern about this global phenomenon that shows an upward trend in global plastic production. The persistence in all four environmental factors and the extreme diversity of Mps lead to high levels of uncertainty in hazard and exposure estimates for this type of risk. Why do we produce plastic? Due to its durability, rigidity, and even abrasion. Currently, few studies have examined how individuals perceive these particles. Our research is based on how Romanians perceive risk Mps and how such risk perception affects people’s pro environmental behavioral intention. The research method is based on a survey (questionnaire) of 409 people from all over Romania, sent online through different platforms. GDPR rules were taken into account when preparing the questionnaire so that respondents are not asked for their personal data. One of the questions in the questionnaire measures the following statements on a scale from 1 to 7, where 1 represents total disagreement and 7, total agreement. Affirmations: R1 - Taking measures against Mps pollution in your household will cost too much money;/R 2 - Mitigating Mps pollution will cost too much time;/ R 3 - Lack of space, hard-to-change habits, and physical effort required are inconveniences for taking de-pollution measures or to mitigate Mps pollution. The results of our study show that in Romania, the perception of individuals in the decision to take measures against Mps pollution costs too much money, obtaining a percentage of 13.30% (total agreement - 7). Time is not a variable obtained in the survey that creates problems for respondents in helping to mitigate Mps pollution. The lack of space in Correspondence address: valeria.bob@yahoo.com 210 Pop V. and Ozunu A. / The degree of awareness of the risk of microplastic particle… Romanian households is a variable where a percentage of 18.76% was obtained (total agreement-7), this being an inconvenience to take depollution measures with Mps. A closer examinatio n of people's perceptions supports the design of appropriate interventions that can reduce plastic consumption, promote proper disposal, and thus decrease Mps pollution risks with benefits to human health and the environment.
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