The impact of environmental awareness and consumer style of the citizen in solving the problem of waste plastic bags

Abstract

This research discusses the problem of the negative environmental effects of plastic bags waste and its relationship to the environmental awareness of citizens and the pattern of production and consumption of plastic bags in the state of Khartoum. Where plastic bag waste appears in a very small percentage of the total municipal solid waste in the state of Khartoum, but it causes chronic environmental problems due to its light weight, its transmission by wind, and the difficulty of recycling it compared to other types of plastic waste. The theoretical background of the problem was investigated from previous references by studying the experiences of other countries, and a detailed questionnaire was conducted in the state of Khartoum to determine the consumer behavior of citizens and the extent of their awareness of the environmental impacts of waste plastic bags. Some interviews were also conducted with government officials to determine the extent of the problem, its root causes, and the technical and legal remedies that have already been taken in the state. The results of the research and the analysis of the questionnaire concluded that the aggravation of the problem of the spread of waste plastic bags in the state is caused by factors related to production and consumption together. In addition to the weak coordination between the legislators and the enforcers of laws related to this industry. And solutions were recommended in the form of economic, social and legal packages of treatments to control this problem in all its stages, starting from the stage of production and distribution, through consumption, to the stage of proper disposal of waste plastic bags.