Preferences for microplastic marine pollution management strategies: an analysis of barriers and enablers for more sustainable choices

Marine microplastic (MP) pollution can have a remarkable impact on some sectors of the blue economy, such as fishing, aquaculture, coastal tourism and biotechnology (e.g., algae). Policy makers are required to implement strategies that reduce this type of pollution to preserve the economy and the employment. This research explores consumers’ perceived barriers to and enablers for purchasing MP-free products as well as preferences for management strategies to limit the marine MP pollution consequences. Some segments of the sample are unable to avoid products that contain MP, because the alternatives are very expensive and the labels are not trustworthy. Affordability, communication campaigns on MP related risks, and (government endorsed) labelling could enable more environmentally friendly choices. Results of a hybrid choice model suggest that residents of New South Wales – Australia would prefer fewer pieces of plastic on the beach and in the ocean, and a smaller impact on animals (e.g., fishes and seabirds), but not at any cost. Monetary contributions for different management strategies that reduce the marine MP pollution are calculated and reported.

BORRIELLO Antonio; 

2023-07-11

ACADEMIC PRESS LTD- ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD

JRC132775

0301-4797 (online),   

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301479723011702,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC132775,   

10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118382 (online),