We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
The Plastic Bag Habit and the Ocean Bali: From Banana Leaf Wrappings to Reusable Bags
Summary
Researchers explored the cultural and behavioral factors driving high plastic bag consumption on Bali, Indonesia, documenting the shift from traditional banana leaf wrappings to plastic bags and evaluating locally adapted solutions to reduce ocean pollution.
Abstract The pollution of the oceans by plastic waste is a growing threat to marine life, ecosystems, livelihoods of coastal communities and the health of human beings in general. Indonesia is the world’s second largest source of marine plastic pollution. As an island state, plastic litter is regularly flushed into the sea. In this study we explore some behavioural and cultural reasons for the high consumption and pollution by plastic bags on Bali and locally adapted solutions. The data was collected from interviews and surveys with shop owners and customers, religious leaders, students, lecturers and activists during 3 years of research in the region. The analysis is structured in three parts: first, understanding the relevant concepts that inform Balinese perception of the natural environment; second, analysing the popularity and aversions among local Balinese in regard to plastic bags; third, investigating a local initiative working towards a ban of plastic bags. Based on these three parts we identified promising approaches that can effectively support local initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Factors Related to Reducing The Use of Plastic Bags in Kabupaten Bekasi
This Indonesian survey study examined the factors that influence whether people in Bekasi Regency reduce their use of plastic bags, finding that knowledge, attitudes, and access to alternatives were key predictors. Reducing single-use plastic bag consumption is important for limiting the amount of plastic that fragments into microplastics in the environment. The paper provides insights for designing behavior-change interventions aimed at plastic pollution reduction.
Ocean plastic crisis—Mental models of plastic pollution from remote Indonesian coastal communities
Remote coastal communities in Indonesia are overwhelmed by plastic pollution despite low plastic literacy, largely because rising living standards have increased single-use plastic consumption while geography and poor waste infrastructure leave communities with few disposal options. The study highlights the need for supply-side interventions and better waste management systems, not just consumer education.
An Overview of Plastic Waste Recycling in the Urban Areas of Java Island in Indonesia
This overview examines plastic waste recycling management in urban areas across Java Island, Indonesia, one of the highest plastic-polluting regions in the world. It identifies barriers to improved recycling rates and proposes strategies to shift toward more sustainable production and consumption patterns.
Prevalence of Plastic Usage and the Factors Associated With It Among Adults in Perambalur District of South India: A Cross-Sectional Study
Researchers surveyed 1,200 adults in South India about their plastic use habits, finding that 92.5% use plastic daily despite widespread awareness of its harms and local bans on plastic bags. The study found that younger, urban, more educated, and male participants were the heaviest plastic users, indicating that awareness alone is not enough to change behavior.
Regulation of the use of plastic bags: how the law acts to control pollution and environmental damage in Bangka Belitung
This empirical legal study analyzes the regulatory framework governing plastic bag use in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province of Indonesia, the 4th most microplastic-polluted province by river contamination, and evaluates how provincial and district-level government can implement mitigation measures. The research highlights gaps between existing regulations and effective enforcement in controlling plastic pollution.