Evaluating drivers of single-use plastic ban in India: an empirical study (January-April 2023)

In India, the local ecosystem is under a lot of stress as a consequence of the increased practice of plastic shopping baggage. The adverse outcome of single-use plastic waste on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including in the marine environment, is recognised worldwide. The solution to pollution caused by single-use plastics is an important environmental challenge for all countries. This research aimed to inspect the attitudes of consumers regarding the ban on single-use plastic. Overall, 251 customers were recruited using a simple random sample method from different cities in the Delhi-NCR region from January 2023 to April 2023. The researcher has applied structural equation modelling (SEM) using Smart-PLS software and the findings indicated that each of the constructs had a statistical significance towards the single-use plastic ban except the environmental awareness and law and regulation. Furthermore, the study concluded that single-use plastic goods, regardless of their material, are harmful to the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to develop comprehensive, appropriate, short and long-term approaches that encourage reuse, and discourage single-use behaviour, policymakers must work with academics, NGOs, and the private sector.