In the 20th century, plastic revolutionized society; however, its widespread use and subsequent accumulation pose serious environmental challenges. Bioplastics are frequently mentioned as a sustainable solution for reducing plastic waste. Nevertheless, public knowledge of bioplastics and their environmental impact remains quite low. The purpose of this research was to determine the level of knowledge and the attitudes of secondary school students regarding bioplastics, and whether these differ based on gender and year of schooling. Our findings show that the majority of students possess a low level of knowledge about bioplastics. Only 41.6% of students correctly understood that the terms "bioplastic" and "biodegradable plastic" are not synonyms. Furthermore, only 24.5% of students were aware that bioplastics are not exclusively made from natural materials. Statistically significant differences were found between genders regarding attitudes toward the usefulness and health impact of single-use products made from conventional plastic. Additionally, differences in attitudes were observed between first-year and third-year students regarding single-use products made from bioplastics. The results of the study indicate a need for improved education on bioplastics, which is crucial for developing sustainable solutions and promoting responsible waste management. These findings are important for the development of effective educational programs that would contribute to a better understanding of the issue and foster behavioral changes among young people. The results may also be useful for educational institutions, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations in planning further measures to reduce plastic pollution.
|
