Behavioral Insights for Plastic Waste Management in Bangladesh

Plastic pollution is a major challenge in Bangladesh, with annual per capita plastic consumption in urban areas tripling from 2005 to 2020. The increased use of plastics, especially single-use plastics (SUPs), combined with inadequate waste management, has resulted in a large amount of plastic leakage into the environment with implications for the environment and human health. This report presents the findings of two studies - one in Cox’s Bazar and the other in Dhaka -which were conducted to support the implementation of the Action Plan. The consultations and in depth interviews for both studies were conducted during September to November of 2022. The objective of these studies was to gain insights into the perceptions and behavior of stakeholders in both locations with regards to plastic usage and waste management. This report presents the findings of two studies - one in Cox’s Bazar and the other in Dhak - which were conducted to support the implementation of the Action Plan. The consultations and in depth interviews for both studies were conducted during September to November of 2022. The objective of these studies was to gain insights into the perceptions and behavior of stakeholders in both locations with regards to plastic usage and waste management. The findings of the studies reveal a relatively high level of public awareness regarding the negative impacts of SUPs on both the environment and human health. In conclusion, the findings of the studies in Cox’s Bazar and Dhaka indicate that the effective reduction of SUP usage and improved plastic waste management practices need a more integrated and targeted approach, involving stakeholders at various levels.