Microplastics pollution understanding of beachgoers in Cape Town: South Africa

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a global issue, with microplastics gaining international attention from Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the government, the public, media and academia; microplastics are a growing source of concern. This research article aims to explore the Cape Town beachgoers’ general knowledge and understanding of microplastic pollution in terms of its potential effects on the environment and human health. Using a questionnaire, the study was conducted at Muizenberg and Lagoon Beach, and involved participants belonging to the age group of <18–64 years. A sampling technique known as convenience sampling was used. This technique allowed individuals to be selected based on their willingness to be part of the sample and their availability; it allowed participants with no obvious knowledge of microplastics to take part. The data were recorded in Excel and analysed with the Statistical Package Social Sciences. Although the public was relatively familiar with microplastics at the time of the study, 40% of the participants from Muizenberg Beach did not know what microplastics are, while 60% knew. In Lagoon Beach, 26.67% did not know what microplastics are, while 73.33% did. Environmental education and the prohibition of microplastics were identified by the majority of respondents as necessary measures for reducing microplastic pollution and further research was suggested, with some of the respondents believing that the lack of strict regulations on plastic use was the greatest difficulty in reducing the pollution from microplastics.