Dilkes-Hoffman, L., Ross, H., Laycock, B., Lant, P., & Pratt, S. (2025). Public attitudes towards plastics in Australia are surprisingly constant in a changing world. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 219, 108329. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2025.108329

Spotlights

  • Building on 2018 research, this study investigates whether the Australian public still view plastics as a serious issues
  • Attitudes have remained constant, with some strengthening of original positions.
  • Plastics are still viewed as the key environmental issue. 85 % of respondents want to reduce disposable plastics use.
  • The results show high public support for action on plastics and development of alternative materials.
  • We recommend surveying a broader group of countries so as to inform the global business and policy agenda.

Graphical abstract

Abstract

This work investigates whether the Australian public still view plastics as a serious environmental issue and how perceptions of alternative materials may have shifted over time. Results were gathered through a survey of 1003 representative Australians. The results show that attitudes have remained constant, with some strengthening of original positions. This is made more noteworthy given the significant shifts in context that occurred during the five-year interval (including the COVID-19 pandemic). Plastics are still viewed as the key environmental concern and 85 % of respondents express a desire to reduce use of disposable plastics. All alternative materials are viewed positively, and 80 % percent of respondents agree they would like more of the plastic items they use to be biodegradable. This is despite understanding of biodegradable plastics decreasing. Combined, these results show policymakers that there is a high degree of public support for action on plastics and the development of alternative materials.