CC BY
11INVESTIGATING THE ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOUR OF NIGERIAN CONSUMERS TOWARDS PLASTIC USAGE AND ASSESSING THE NEED
FOR BEHAVIOURAL CHANGES
NWANKWO NNABUEZE KALU
PhD candidate, Institute of Environmental Engineering RUDN University, Moscow, Russia.
Abstract: The journey regarding a plastic-reduced Nigeria is a collective effort that involves commitment and action at all levels of society. Nigeria, as a populated and diverse nation, struggles with the challenges of plastic waste management. This article delves into the attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers concerning plastic usage, shedding light on their perceptions, consumption patterns, and the circumstances that influence their choices. The study employs a comprehensive methodology to gather insights. Findings reveal that Nigerian consumers possess varying attitudes towards single-use plastics, influenced by socioeconomic and cultural factors. The article highlights the need for behavioural changes and evaluates the implications of current consumer habits on the environment. It discusses approaches for reducing plastic consumption, promoting sustainable alternatives, and increasing public awareness. This research encourages a comprehensive approach to tackle plastic pollution in Nigeria. It concludes with recommendations aimed at fostering a sustainable shift in consumer behaviour, contributing to a plastic-reduced Nigeria
Keywords: Plastic pollution, Consumer behaviour, Nigeria, Sustainable, alternatives, Environmental impact, Plastic consumption, Awareness and education,
Introduction
The abundant presence of plastic in modern society has unquestionably transformed human life in many ways, offering accessibility and usefulness. However, this convenience comes at a significant cost to the environment. Plastic pollution has appeared as a global crisis, with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Nigeria, as one of the most populated nations in Africa and an important player in the global community, is no exception to the challenges posed by plastic waste.
The proliferation of plastic materials, predominantly single-use plastics, has become a pervasive issue in Nigeria. The nation deals with the environmental, economic, and public health consequences of unsatisfactory plastic waste management. While significant attention has been given to the global issue of plastic pollution, there is a pressing need to scrutinize this challenge from a local perspective, focusing on the attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers. The upsurge in plastic use and consequent waste generation is of concern due to the ubiquity of plastic particles in the environment and consequent adverse environmental impact [1]
This article aims to bridge this gap by overseeing a comprehensive investigation into the attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers concerning plastic usage. By researching into consumer perceptions, patterns of plastic consumption, and the factors influencing their choices, we seek to provide valuable insights into the fundamental dynamics of plastic consumption in Nigeria. Moreover, this study examines the roles played by government policies and the private sector in addressing this issue.
Understanding the attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers to plastic usage is a vital step in the journey towards more sustainable practices. It lets us evaluate the need for behavioural changes and identify effective strategies to reduce plastic consumption. As the world recognizes the urgency of mitigating plastic pollution, Nigeria
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stands at a key juncture, where informed decisions and resolute efforts can make a
significant impact.
Research result and discussion:
Plastic Pollution: A Global Concern
Plastic pollution, known as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, exceeds national borders and affects ecosystems worldwide. Its wide-reaching effects are felt in oceans, rivers, continental landscapes, and the air we breathe. The increased application and use of plastics for several industrial and domestic processes including food packaging and construction has resulted in their ubiquitous occurrence and distribution in the environment with human, biota and ecosystem health concerns [10] The Environmental Impact of Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution presents a serious threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. The non-biodegradable nature of most plastics means they stay in the environment for centuries. In water bodies, plastics break down into microplastics, which are ingested by marine life, hypothetically entering the food chain. This not only endangers marine species but also causes health risks to those who depend on seafood as a source of nutrition.
Besides, plastic litter on land and in water bodies not only ruins the natural beauty of landscapes but also interferes with ecosystems. Wildlife can become trapped in plastic debris, and plastic waste can impede water flow in rivers, aggravating flood risks. As plastics break down, they release destructive chemicals into the environment, further impacting ecosystems and human health.
Plastic Waste Management in Nigeria
In Nigeria, the problem of plastic waste management is multifaceted. The country faces major difficulties in collecting, recycling, and disposing of plastic waste effectively. Many cities and regions lack sufficient waste collection and disposal infrastructure, leading to plastic litter in streets, rivers, and open dumps. Endeavours have been made by government authorities to address this issue through legislation and policies aimed at controlling plastic production and promoting recycling. Nevertheless, execution and realization have shown to be difficult. The informal sector also plays an important role in plastic waste management, with individuals collecting and selling recyclable materials, but this method is not satisfactory for managing the growing volume of plastic waste.
In this circumstance, it becomes crucial to examine the behaviour and attitudes of Nigerian consumers towards plastic usage. Consumer choices and behaviours have a significant impact on the plastic waste stream, making it fundamental to understand their perspectives and motivations to develop effective strategies for reducing plastic consumption and improving waste management practices.
Methodology
Research Design and Data Collection
To gain perceptions of the attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers towards plastic usage, a mixed-methods research approach was employed. This approach combines quantitative and qualitative research methods to provide a complete understanding of the subject. The research design included the following key elements:
• Surveys: A structured survey was administered to a large sample of respondents to collect quantitative data. The survey intended to assess consumer perceptions, consumption patterns, and preferences regarding plastic usage.
• In-Depth Interviews: Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with a subset of participants to dig deeper into their attitudes and motivations. These interviews allowed for a better understanding of consumer behaviour.
• Content Analysis: A content analysis of relevant media and online discussions was performed to identify prevalent themes and public discourse related to plastic usage in Nigeria.
Data collection took place over a specified period, allowing for a substantial dataset encompassing a diverse range of perspectives and insights.
Consumer Perceptions of Plastic Usage
The attitudes and perceptions of Nigerian consumers play an essential role in determining their behaviour towards plastic usage. It is a common practice to see a large number of waste plastic products not collected in waste bins for further processing, recovery and standard disposal via recycling centres, incinerators or landfills, rather, they are carelessly scattered or discarded into regions that are inaccessible for waste collection and hence terminating the possibility of recovery/recycling [9]
Attitudes Towards Single-Use Plastics
Single-use plastics, often used for packaging and disposable items, have come under increased scrutiny due to their role in plastic pollution. Nigerian consumers exhibit a range of attitudes towards single-use plastics, which can be summarized as follows:
1. Accessibility: Several consumers appreciate the convenience of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags and containers. Nevertheless, this accessibility often conflicts with growing environmental problems. Some consumers show a readiness to change their habits to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics when made aware of the environmental effects.
2. Price Factor: Economic factors influence consumer attitudes. Several Nigerians view single-use plastics as cost-effective, while others know that the long-term environmental costs outweigh the short-term savings.
3. Cultural Perceptions: Cultural beliefs and practices shape attitudes. For instance, certain cultural norms encourage the use of reusable containers and traditional alternatives to plastics in rural areas.
4. Youth and Awareness: The younger generations are inclined to be more aware of environmental issues and have more eco-conscious attitudes. They often lead to accepting alternatives to single-use plastics.
Knowledge and Awareness of Plastic Pollution
Knowledge and awareness of plastic pollution are crucial factors in influencing consumer behaviour. The level of understanding varies among Nigerian consumers:
1. Limited Knowledge: A significant percentage of the population has limited knowledge about the harmful effects of plastic pollution. Education and awareness campaigns are important to address this difference.
2. Media and Public Discourse: Awareness is often inspired by media coverage and public discourse. High-profile environmental events and news stories significantly influence public awareness.
3. Ecofriendly Activism: A growing number of consumers in Nigeria especially celebrities are involved in environmental activism and advocacy, adding to increased awareness and consciousness of plastic pollution issues.
4. Educational Programs: Schools, universities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in educating people about plastic pollution. Programs to include environmental education in the curriculum are emerging.
Plastic Consumption Patterns
Consumer actions related to plastic consumption in Nigeria are considerably influenced by the types of plastic products consumed and the rate and locations of plastic usage.
Types of Plastic Products Consumed
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The type of plastic products consumed by Nigerians is wide-ranging from everyday essentials to luxury items. Some common categories include:
1. Packet Items: Plastic bags, containers, and wraps are widely used for packaging groceries, food, and household items.
2. Bottled Drinks: Plastic bottles for water, soft drinks, and other beverages are predominant and add to the plastic waste stream.
3. Care Products: Products like shampoo, lotion, and soap are often packed in plastic containers.
4. Domestic Items: Plastic chairs, tables, and kitchen utensils are usual in Nigerian households.
5. Electronics and Appliances: Electronic devices and machines are often wrapped in plastic.
6. Clothing and Accessories: Synthetic textiles and accessories, such as bags and shoes, contain plastic parts.
Frequency and Locations of Plastic Usage
Understanding when and where plastic products are normally used is vital in addressing plastic consumption patterns. Key insights include:
1. Regular Use: Many Nigerians use plastic products every day, principally in the form of packaging materials for food and groceries.
2. Street Food and Vendors: In the urban areas street food vendors often use single-use plastic containers, adding to plastic waste in urban areas.
3. Takeaway and Fast Food: Plastic packaging for takeaway and fast-food orders is common, exposing the accessibility factor.
4. Social and Cultural Occasions: Festivals, parties, and gatherings often involve plastic plates, cups, and cutlery for ease of use and disposal.
5. Retail and Shopping: Plastic bags are frequently used in trade for packaging bought items, a practice that extends to small convenience stores and larger supermarkets.
6. Construction and Industry: Plastic products are also greatly used in construction and numerous industries, including pipes, materials, and equipment.
Consumer behaviour in Nigeria differs depending on the context and the availability of alternatives. The accessibility and low cost of plastic products often drive their usage. However, the environmental implications of this extensive plastic consumption have spurred discussions about alternatives and sustainable choices. The majority of the million tons of plastic produced each year is being disposed of after a single use. Plastic bottles, bags, food containers, gloves, and cups that end up in landfills and the environment could linger for hundreds to thousands of years [7]
Factors Influencing Consumer Behavior
The attitudes and behaviours of Nigerian consumers towards plastic usage are shaped by a different interaction between socioeconomic factors and cultural and behavioural drivers.
Socioeconomic Factors
Socioeconomic factors play an essential role in ascertaining consumer behaviour about plastic usage. Several key considerations include:
Amount of Salary: Well-paid persons may be more likely to opt for eco-friendly alternatives, while those with lower incomes may prioritize affordability, which often leads to the use of inexpensive plastic products.
1. Availability to Alternatives: The accessibility of replacements to plastic products differs across regions. residents in urban areas may have greater access to reusable and sustainable options.
2. Education and Awareness: Education levels can significantly impact consumer behaviour. More educated persons are often more conscious of the environmental effects of plastic usage and may be more eager to adopt sustainable alternatives.
3. Government Guidelines and Incentives: Government initiatives, such as plastic bags or incentives for recycling, can influence consumer choices. Guidelines that promote sustainability can drive behavioural change.
4. Job Opportunities: Employment in industries related to plastic production and waste management can impact the perception and behaviour of consumers, as it may affect livelihoods.
Cultural and Behavioral Drivers
Cultural and behavioural factors are deeply fixed in consumer choices related to plastic usage in Nigeria. Some of the key drivers include:
1. Cultural norms: Traditional practices can impact consumer choices. In some Nigerian beliefs, the use of sustainable, non-plastic alternatives is normal.
2. Social Standards: Social pressures and standards can impact behaviour. Perceptions of what is adequate or fashionable often influence the choice of products and materials. It is common practice for food vendors and hawkers to dish food into plastic bags for their clients [4]
3. Consumer Opinions: Individual beliefs, standards, and ethical concerns play an important role. Some users place a high value on environmental sustainability and make decisions aligned with these principles.
4. Peer pressure: Friends and family can influence consumer behaviour. Recommendations and choices of close contacts often influence individual choices.
5. Publicity and Marketing: The marketing and promotion of products, including plastic replacements, can impact consumer decisions. Advertisements that emphasize environmental benefits can shape perceptions.
Understanding the complex nature of these influences is critical for developing effective plans to drive behavioural change. Schemes aimed at reducing plastic usage should take into account not only economic factors but also cultural and behavioural characteristics, creating a balanced approach that aligns with the values and priorities of the Nigerian population.
Evaluating the Necessity for Behavioral Changes
Assessing the necessity for behavioural changes is a vital step in tackling the limitations of plastic pollution in Nigeria.
Consequences of Consumer Behavior on the Environment Consumer behaviour concerning plastic usage in Nigeria holds significant environmental implications, which include:
1. Plastic Contamination: Extensive use of single-use plastics causes plastic pollution, harming terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, endangering wildlife, and degrading natural landscapes.
2. Resource Exhaustion: The manufacturing of plastics utilizes non-renewable resources, including fossil fuels. It also emits greenhouse gases, adding to climate change.
3. Waste Management problems: The unsuccessful management of plastic waste brings about plastic littering, blocked drainage systems, and increased flood risks in urban areas.
4. Marine Contamination: Plastic waste often finds its way into rivers and oceans, impacting marine life. It poses threats to fish, seabirds, and other aquatic organisms that ingest or become entangled in plastic debris.
5. Health Risks: The breakdown of plastics can discharge toxic chemicals, impacting both the environment and human health through water sources. The environmental effects of current consumer behaviour call for urgent action to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic pollution.
Potential Strategies for Reducing Plastic Consumption
Addressing the need for behavioural changes necessitates a multifaceted approach involving government policies, industry practices, and consumer engagement. Some potential strategies to reduce plastic consumption include:
1. Legislation and Regulation: The government can introduce and enforce laws to restrict or ban certain single-use plastics. Deposit-return systems, extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs and plastic taxes are among the regulatory approaches. In May 2019, the Nigerian government passed the Plastic Bags Prohibition Bill (Bill) which proposed to prohibit the use, manufacture and importation of all plastic bags used for commercial and household packaging [8]
2. Promotion of Sustainable Alternatives: Encouraging the use of eco-friendly replacements, such as reusable bags, containers, and products, can help reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
3. Education and Awareness: Public awareness campaigns and environmental education schemes can inform consumers about the effects of plastic pollution, fostering responsible behaviour. A lack of awareness of the environmental and potential health risks of plastic pollution, the poor resourcing of waste management and recycling infrastructure, an unskilled/inadequate waste collection workforce, and untimely litter collection potentially exacerbate the scale of the problem [2]
4. Waste Management Infrastructure: Capital spending on waste collection, recycling facilities, and waste-to-energy technologies can enhance plastic waste management.
5. Manufacturing Modernization: Companies can implement sustainable packaging practices and search for replacements for single-use plastics in their products. Product design that decreases plastic use is a vital step.
6. Community Involvement: Engaging local communities in clean-up drives, recycling programs, and sustainable practices fosters a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship. If communities feel that recycling schemes are set up mainly for private profit then this may undermine their willingness to participate [3]
7. Research and Innovation: Supporting research into biodegradable plastics and innovative solutions for plastic waste reduction can contribute to long-term sustainability.
Recommendations for Change
To solve the limitations presented by plastic pollution and encourage a more sustainable method of plastic usage in Nigeria, a series of recommendations are suggested. These recommendations are centred around encouraging sustainable replacements and raising awareness and education.
Encouraging Sustainable Replacements
1. Support the Use of Reusable Products: Encourage the adoption of reusable shopping bags, containers, and bottles through awareness campaigns and incentives. Vendors can also offer reductions for customers who bring their reusable bags.
2. Boost the Local Production of Replacements: Finance and support local businesses that produce sustainable replacements for plastic products. This not
only encourages economic growth but also decreases the dependence on imported plastics.
3. Support Eco-Friendly Packing: Create incentives for businesses to use eco-friendly packaging materials. Tax breaks, certification programs, or government agreements for companies using sustainable materials can be helpful.
4. Research and Develop Biodegradable Plastics: Support research and development-focused efforts on biodegradable plastics that have minimal environmental impact. This can involve collaboration between universities, research institutions, and the private sector. The management of post-consumer discarded plastic wastes (PCPW) creates new challenges in developing countries due to the lack of amenities, technological interventions, and associated negative environmental externalities [6]
Raising Awareness and Education
1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns that inform citizens about the consequences of plastic pollution. These campaigns should emphasize the environmental, health, and economic impacts of irresponsible plastic use.
2. Environmental Education in Schools: Incorporate environmental education into the school curriculum. Teach students about the importance of responsible plastic usage and the benefits of sustainable practices.
3. Community Engagement: Encourage local communities to take ownership of their environment through clean-up initiatives, recycling programs, and eco-friendly practices. Provide resources and support to enable community-driven change.
4. Media and Celebrity Advocacy: Collaborate with media outlets and influential figures, including celebrities and public personalities, to amplify the message of responsible plastic use and the advantages of eco-friendly alternatives.
5. Industry Responsibility: Engage industries in raising awareness among employees and consumers. Companies can actively promote responsible plastic use and sustainable alternatives as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.
6. Government-Led Campaigns: The government should take the lead in awareness campaigns and initiatives. This includes promoting responsible plastic usage, recycling, and waste management practices. Regardless of where plastic pollution originates, the management interventions made at the local level are crucial to the global success of reducing plastic pollution. Reduced plastic consumption and pollution have been observed in communities with plastic taxes and educational programs [5]
The path toward a plastic-reduced Nigeria requires a concerted effort involving government, industry, and individual citizens. The adoption of sustainable alternatives and a commitment to awareness and education will play a pivotal role in preserving the environment for future generations. It is our collective responsibility to take action, make informed choices, and create a more sustainable and plastic-conscious society. Conclusion
The Problem of plastic contamination is a global concern and Nigeria, as a populated and diverse nation, faces its unique problems and opportunities in addressing this problem. The research into the attitudes and behaviour of Nigerian consumers towards plastic usage and the need for behavioural changes has presented vital awareness that highlights the urgency of finding solutions to abate the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
Nigerian consumers show varied attitudes and behaviours in their connection with plastic products. These behaviours are inspired by numerous factors, including socioeconomic factors, cultural norms, and peer pressure. The complicated nature of
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these influences underlines the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue of plastic pollution realistically.
The Environmental Consequences of existing consumer behaviour are severe. Extensive use of single-use plastics has caused plastic contamination, which presents a severe threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. It exhausts non-renewable resources and aids to climate change, while also challenging waste management systems. These factors call for the need for behavioural change and the demand for adopting a more sustainable method of plastic usage in Nigeria.
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