Factors affecting zero-waste behaviors: Focusing on the health effects of microplastics

Abstract Microplastics harm human health. Therefore, the present study assessed the knowledge and attitude of university students towards reducing microplastic use and examined their zero-waste behaviors. Our results lay the foundation for program development aimed at promoting zero-waste activities. The study was conducted from August 20, 2021, to September 10, 2021, including students at a university in G metropolitan city. Questions were developed to verify how the use of disposables and the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors related to zero-waste were affected after the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey was conducted with 197 students, and the data of 196 students were analyzed. Family type (β=0.146, p=0.042) and usage of disposables (β=0.158, p=0.049) were the factors affecting zero-waste behavior in Model 1. In Model 2, which included the subcategory of zero-waste knowledge, the health effects of microplastics (β=0.197, p=0.008) and environmental preservation (β=0.236, p=0.001) were significant factors. In Model 3, which included the subcategory of zero-waste attitude, the health effects of microplastics (β=0.149, p=0.016), use of eco-friendly products (β=0.342, p<0.001), and environmental preservation (β=0.317, p<.001) were significant factors. Therefore, additional studies and education on the health effects of microplastics are warranted, and suitable alternatives for disposables must be developed.