Page No:251-264
V. Kaushik,
Government Arts College, Coimbatore
T. Veeramani,
Government Arts and Science College for Women, Coimbatore
A Velayudhan,
Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
This study investigated the level of awareness concerning the ill effects of plastics on
the environment primarily and drastically on human health and among various
demographic groups in Coimbatore, India. A sample of 1,200 participants, consisting
of 633 males and 567 females aged 18 to 61 years and above, were selected through
purposive sampling. The Cancer-Causing Plastics Awareness Scale (CCPAS) was
used to measure participants awareness of issues related to plastics, including their
carcinogenic potential, disposal methods, sources and environmental impacts. The
data was analyzed using ANOVA revealed that awareness did not significantly differ
across most demographic factors. Specifically, there were no differences found in level
of awareness regarding plastics and cancer, plastics disposal, or environmental effects
across different age groups, genders, educational levels and occupational statuses. A
significant difference was observed in the knowledge of the source of plastics among
different age groups and educational levels, with participants with higher education
levels demonstrating greater awareness, respondents from metropolitan areas exhibited
more awareness of the cancer risks associated with plastics than those from tribal or
village areas. These findings indicate that awareness of the harmful effects of plastics
is generally widespread, likely due to the extensive reach of media coverage and
environmental education initiatives. The results signify the importance of reinforcing
the message of environmental sustainability across all demographics to ensure an
overall understanding of the risks associated with plastic use