From Ocean to Table

How Public Awareness Shapes the Fight Against Microplastic Pollution

Bibliographic Data

ID13113172
AuthorsJoshua Khorsandi (University of Nevada, Las Vegas, corresponding author), Liahm Blank (University of Nevada, Las Vegas), Kaloyan Momchilov (University of Nevada, Las Vegas), Michael Dagovetz (University of Nevada, Las Vegas), Kavita Batra (0000-0002-0722-0191, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume9
Issue10
Pages418-418
Publication date2025-10-08
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueUrban Science (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2413-8851 • E-ISSN: 2413-8851
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/urbansci9100418
OpenAlexW4414965755
LanguageEN
References cited89

Microplastic pollution is an escalating environmental and public health issue. Defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in size, microplastics have been found in oceans, rivers, food, drinking water, air, and even human tissues. While scientific research on microplastics has expanded significantly, public understanding and behavioral change remain limited. This literature scan synthesizes global findings on public awareness, perceptions, and responses to microplastics, drawing from surveys, focus groups, and online behavioral data collected by existing studies. It explores the following: (1) general knowledge and perceived environmental and health risks; (2) trust in scientific and governmental sources; (3) willingness to adopt behavioral changes; (4) attitudes toward policy and corporate responsibility. Public concern is high, especially regarding marine life and food safety, but varies across populations based on education, socioeconomic status, and media exposure. Despite growing concern, psychological distance and persistent knowledge gaps hinder meaningful action. Communication strategies such as school programs, media campaigns, and eco-labels show mixed success, while regulatory interventions like plastic bags or microbead bans are more effective when supported by clear public messaging. This literature scan highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to close the knowledge–behavior–policy gap and strengthen public engagement, particularly in urban settings where consumption and waste generation are concentrated

Consumption (sociology · Microplastics · Plastic pollution · Psychological intervention · Public health · Public opinion · Public participation · Public policy · Socioeconomic status · Microplastics and Plastic Pollution · Municipal Solid Waste Management · Recycling and Waste Management Techniques

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access