FACTORS OF BEHAVIORAL INTENTIONS F'OR SINGLE-USE PLASTTC AVOIDENCE IN POLONNARUWA DISTRICT

Abstract

Single-use plastic waste has become a critical environmental issue, threatening ecosystems and human well-being globally. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing behavioral intentions for single-use plastic avoidance in the Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka. Employing a quantitative research approach, a structured questionnaire was administered a sample of 384 residents. The Theory of Planned Behavior and relevant literature guided the conceptualization of the research model, which examined the relationships between attitude, environmental awareness, laws and regulations, perceived behavioral control, plastic avoidance behavioral intention, plastic-related environmental concern, subjective norm, and single-use plastic avoidance behavior. SPSS analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that attitude, environmental awareness, laws and regulations, perceived behavioral control, plastic avoidance behavioral intention, and plastic-related environmental concern were significant predictors of single-use plastic avoidance behavior, either directly or indirectly through mediation. The results highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes, raising environmental awareness, implementing effective laws and regulations, enhancing perceived control, and addressing plastic-related environmental concerns to promote sustainable consumption practices. The study contributes to the growing body of research on pro-environmental behaviors and plastic avoidance, offering valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and community leaders in developing targeted interventions and strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of single-use plastics. Future research should consider longitudinal designs, expand the geographical scope, explore additional factors, employ mixed-methods approaches, and encourage interdisciplinary collaborations to advance knowledge in this critical area.