Behavioral insights for Plastic Waste ManageMent in Bangladesh the World BanK i Behavioral Insights for Plastic Waste Management in Bangladesh THE WORLD BANK Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ii © 2024 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development /the World Bank 1818 H Street NW Washington, D.C. 20433 Telephone: 202-473-1000 Internet: www.worldbank.org This work is a product of the staff of the World Bank with external contributions. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this work do not necessarily reflect the views of the World Bank, its Board of Executive Directors, or the governments they represent. The World Bank does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currency of the data included in this work and does not assume responsibility for any errors, omissions, or discrepancies in the information, or liability with respect to the use of or failure to use the information, methods, processes, or conclusions set forth. 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Any queries on rights and licenses, including subsidiary rights, should be addressed to World Bank Publications, the World Bank Group, 1818 H Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20433, USA; fax: 202-522-2625; e-mail: pubrights@ worldbank.org. All photos used in this report taken by World Bank team. Further permission required for reuse. Report design and layout: Rustam Vani and Sudev Kumar Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management iii As Bangladesh’s economy grows and the country becomes rapidly urbanized, plastic pollution has become an escalating problem. Moving forward, the Government of Bangladesh aims for sustainable development by stepping up and modernizing the action on pollution and waste management and adopting appropriate approaches, including a circular economy. The report is part of a deep dive on plastic waste management in Bangladesh, an analytical product under the Building Back Greener Bangladesh Programmatic Analytics and Advisory Services aimed to support the Govern- ment of Bangladesh to better understand the status of plastic issues and form a basis on which to tackle plastic waste management in a more systematic and comprehensive manner. The deep dive builds on the analytics and aligns with the recommendations set forward in the Country Environmental Analysis (CEA) (2023) and the Multisectoral Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management in Bangladesh (2021) focusing on different areas of policy and regulatory reforms; economic instruments; technology and infrastructure; and awareness raising. It supports the Bank’s commitment to work with countries around the world to pursue and scale-up policies and programs that help them move toward a circular plastic economy and, in partnership with civil society and the private sector, harnesses the power of innovation to bring viable and sustainable solutions for plastic waste re- duction and management. This report was produced with generous financial support from PROBLUE, a multi-donor trust fund administered by the World Bank, that supports the sustainable and integrated development of marine and coastal resources in a healthy ocean. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management iv Table of Contents Acknowledgments iv Glossary of Terms viii Glossary of Behavioral Biases viii Acronyms ix Executive Summary x 1 Chapter: Introduction 1.1 The Context 1.2 About this Study 1 1 2 2 Chapter: Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar 2.1 Background 2.2 Conceptual Framework: COM-B 4 4 5 2.3 Methodology 8 2.4 Findings 11 3 Chapter: Behavioral Study in Dhaka 3.1 Background 3.2 Methodology 31 31 31 3.3 Findings 33 4 Chapter: Recommendations 4.1 Capability Barriers 4.2 Opportunity Barriers 38 39 42 4.3 Motivational Barriers 45 5 Chapter: Conclusions References 52 50 Appendix 1. Sampling Distribution in Cox’s Bazar Study 54 Appendix 2. Additional Graphs from Dhaka Study 56 Appendix 3. Stakeholder Analysis for Dhaka Study 62 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management v Tables Table 1. Themes and Research Questions for Cox’s Bazar Study 4 Table 2. Analytical Framework for Cox’s Bazar Study 7 Table 3. Sampling in Cox’s Bazar Study 10 Table 4. Recommendations Addressing Capability Barriers 39 Table 5. Recommendations Addressing Opportunity Barriers 42 Table 6. Recommendations Addressing Motivation Barriers 45 Table A.1. Stakeholder Analysis for Dhaka Study 62 Figures Figure ES.1. Typical SUP Journey of a Plastic Straw in Cox’s Bazar xi Figure 1. Conceptual Framework 6 Figure 2. Study Area Map in the Coastal Area 8 Figure 3. Study Methodology 9 Figure 4. Categories of Plastic Products Used 11 Figure 5. Waste Disposal Practices 13 Figure 6. Consequences of SUP Use 16 Figure 7. Billboard at Sugandha Beach-Side Road, Cox’s Bazar 21 Figure 8. Alternatives Used by Eco-Resorts in Cox’s Bazar 22 Figure 9. Enabling Factors for Businesses for Sustainable Practices and Products 24 Figure 10. Study Area Map in Dhaka 32 Figure 11. Categories of Plastic Products Used 33 Figure 12. Plastic Waste Disposal Practices 34 Figure 13. Knowledge About Plastic Waste Impact on the Environment 35 Figure A.1. Reasons for Using Plastic Products 56 Figure A.2. Areas Most Polluted by Plastic Waste 56 Figure A.3. Potential Impacts of Plastic Pollution, According to Respondents 57 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management vi Figure A.4. Knowledge about Impacts of Plastic Waste on Human Health 57 Figure A.5. Diseases Occurrence in the Community 57 Figure A.6. Disease Occurrence among Family Members of Respondents in the Last 5 years 58 Figure A.7. Sources of Knowledge about Plastic Waste 58 Figure A.8. Perceived Changes in Plastic Product Use 59 Figure A.9. Causes of Increase in Use of Plastic Products 59 Figure A.10. Causes of Decrease in Use of Plastic Products 60 Figure A.11. Perceived Need to Stop Plastic Use 60 Figure A.12. Knowledge of Government Regulations Regarding Plastic Pollution 61 Figure A.13. Perceived Alternatives to Plastic Products 61 Boxes Box 1. Why Do a Qualitative Behavioral Diagnostic? 5 Box 2. Summary of Capability Barriers 19 Box 3. Summary of Opportunity Barriers 26 Box 4. Summary of Motivational Barriers 29 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management vii Glossary of Terms Biodegradable: Capable of being reduced to finer particles (degraded or decomposed) by microbiological organisms Khal: Canal or river channel Pourasabha or pourashava: Local governing body, municipality or municipal corporation of a city or town in Bangladesh Recyclable: Able to be collected, separated, and processed to be used as raw material in the manufacture of a new product Recycling: The process by which waste materials are transformed into new products in such a manner that the original products may lose their identity Solid waste management: Systematic control of generation, storage, collection, transport, separation, processing, recycling, recovery, and final disposal of solid waste Upazilla: Sub-district in Bangladesh Vangari dokan (scrap shop) or bhangari: Small shops that buy and sell recyclable waste and old and scrap items Glossary of Behavioral Biases Availability bias: The tendency to rely on information that immediately or easily comes to mind when making judgements or decisions Bandwagon effect: The tendency for individuals to adopt behaviors, beliefs, or attitudes because they observe other people doing the same Default: An option that is automatically chosen if an individual does not actively make a choice or take a different course of action Locus of control: The extent to which people believe themselves to be in control of the outcome of an event in their lives, as opposed to external factors or forces Mental models: Beliefs, concepts, and ideas used by people to interpret the world around them Moral hazard: When people engage in risky or reckless behavior, because they are protected from the negative consequences of their actions Present bias: Giving greater weight to current concerns over future ones, such as favoring current rewards above future ones, because future benefits are not perceived as fully clear Salience bias: The tendency to focus on information or ideas that are more prominent and ignore those that are less prominent Self-serving bias: When people attribute the positive events, outcomes, and successes to themselves and negative events, outcomes, and failures to external factors Social norms: Informal rules of acceptable and appropriate behavior within a specific group or community that guide behavior and are usually held in place by expected social sanctions Status quo bias: The preference to keep things as they are or stick to the present process instead of changing anything Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management viii Acronyms BPGMEA Bangladesh Plastic Goods, Manufacturing and Exporters Association CBO community-based organization COM-B Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Behavior DNCC Dhaka North City Corporation DSCC Dhaka South City Corporation DWASA Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority EPR extended producer responsibility FGD focus group discussion IDI in-depth interview 3Rs reduce, reuse, recycle SUP single-use plastic MLP multi-layered plastic NGO non-governmental organization PPP public-private partnership PRO producers responsibility organization UNDP United Nations Development Programme Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ix Acknowledgments This report was prepared by Bushra Nishat, Environmental Specialist; Tasmia Rahman, Economist, Mind, Behavior, and Development Unit (eMBeD) at the Development Impact (DIME) department; Ailin Tomio, Behavioral Scientist, eMBeD at the DIME department; and Nina Tsydenova, Environmental Specialist with contributions from Fatima Karout, Consultant, eMBeD at the DIME department, and Susan Sellars, Copy Editor. Additional critical support throughout various stages of preparation was provided by Ana Luisa Gomes Lima, Senior Environmental Specialist, Eun Joo Allison Yi, Senior Environmental Specialist, Pawan Patil, Senior Economist, and Md Mahady Hassan, Water Resources Specialist. The team gratefully acknowledges the technical contributions of Taufiq Samad, Anindya Barai, Mamun Rashid, Zabir Hossain, Md. Akteruzzaman, Shameem Reza Khan, Sabbir Ahmed Dhali, S.K. Tanvir Hasan, Md. Kamrul Hasan and Dipanjan Sidhanta from Development Research Institute for the study conducted in Cox’s Bazar. The team also acknowledges Md. Shafiqur Rahman, Raisin Akhter Feroz, Nehreen Majed, Md. Mashiur Rahman, Madhu Shudan Das, Muhammad Anwar Iqbal and Saiful Islam Imran from Development Solutions Consultants Limited and Professor M Niamul Naser from Dhaka University for the technical contributions for the study conducted in Dhaka. Numerous stakeholders were interviewed and shared their knowledge, for which the team is grateful. For technical guidance and feedback, the team thanks the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Department of Environment (DoE). The team would like to express its gratitude to Abdul Hamid, Razinara Begum, and Abdullah Al-Mamun of DoE for their support in conducting the fieldwork for the study. The team thanks Jorge Luis Castaneda Nunez, Economist, World Bank, for his constructive comments and guidance as peer reviewer. Overall management support and guidance was provided by Dina Umali-Deininger, Regional Director for Sustainable Development, South Asia Region; Abdoulaye Seck, Country Director, Bangladesh and Bhutan; and Christophe Crepin, Practice Manager, Environment and Natural Resources Global Practice. The team also thanks Gayle Martin, Operations Manager, Bangladesh and Bhutan, Elsa Le Groumellec, Senior Counsel, Christina Leb, Senior Counsel, and Bruno Bonansea, Program Manager, Cartography, for their support and guidance. The team also acknowledges Serrana Beatriz Mujica Estevez and Sudev Kumar for design, layout, and infographics; and Patricia Anne Janer for creating maps within the report; and Ian Richie Paulson, Muhammad Naeem and Hanny for overall administrative support. The team acknowledges the financial support provided by PROBLUE, a Multi-Donor Trust Fund housed at the World Bank that supports the development of integrated, sustainable, and healthy marine and coastal resources. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 x Executive Summary 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. Bangladesh is proactively tackling plastic with initiatives set in motion by plastic manufacturers, plastic recyclers, local governments and non-profit organisations as well as the 2020 High Court action enforcing the policy requirements and the development of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2021. In addition, the government endorsed Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management (2021) maps out a comprehensive approach towards a circular economy, stressing the 3Rs—reduce, reuse, recycle—across different sectors and timelines. 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. The findings are expected to inform and guide the design and implementation of strategies to reduce the use of SUPs and improve plastic waste management and disposal practices. The studies were designed to be complementary, each offering distinct insights that contribute to a holistic understanding of the plastic waste management challenges in Bangladesh. The Cox’s Bazar study employed a behavioral science-informed diagnostic approach, drawing from multiple disciplines to explore how people’s perceptions, thinking, and behavior shape and relate to the challenges and outcomes related to the behaviors of interest. The Dhaka survey consisted of a knowledge and practices survey, focusing on identifying structural challenges to policy outcomes from informational, economic, and regulatory standpoints. The selection of Cox’s Bazar, with its coastal significance, and Dhaka, the most populous city in Bangladesh, was strategic, ensuring a diverse range of data reflective of varied environmental and demographic contexts. 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. For example, the results from the Dhaka survey show that 85% of respondents recognized the environmental impacts and 80% understood the health impacts of plastic use. However, despite this awareness, the use of plastic products continues to increase, driven by their low cost and convenience. Waste disposal methods vary: common practices in Dhaka involve discarding waste in open spaces or using city corporation collectors, whereas in Cox’s Bazar businesses often resort to dumping and burying, highlighting a lack of formal waste management systems. The segregation and recycling of plastics is minimal and often managed informally with limited effectiveness. When considering alternatives to plastics, traditional materials like jute (38% of respondents) and paper products (32%) are preferred. Finally, most residents in Dhaka believe that pollution control should be handled primarily by city corporations (37%) and individuals (30%). Executive Summary ES 1 2 3 4 5 xi Figure ES.1 Typical SUP Journey of a Plastic Straw in Cox’s Bazar WHY DO WE STILL USE straws? Understanding and Overcoming Behavioural and Infrastructure Bottlenecks in Plastics Economy to Reduce Dependency on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) Based on a behavioural study done in Cox’s Bazar How should I serve beverages to clients? WE’VE ALWAYS USED PLASTIC STRAWS. WHY SHOULD WE CHANGE NOW? WHAT ELSE COULD I USE EXCEPT PLASTIC STRAWS? CUSTOMERS PREFER PLASTIC STRAWS BECAUSE THEY ARE HYGIENIC. 1 PLASTIC STRAWS DON’T HARM THE ENVIRONMENT. RESTAURANT SOLUTION: ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE SUPs MANAGER ALTERNATIVES + SHOWCASE ROLE MODELS. What do I do with the used straw? How do I drink the beverage? I DON’T KNOW WHERE TO THROW THE WE’VE ALWAYS USED PLASTIC STRAWS. WHY PLASTIC STRAWS. SHOULD WE CHANGE NOW? I DON’T SEE ANY TRASH BIN CLOSE BY. WHAT ELSE COULD I USE EXCEPT PLASTIC STRAWS? I JUST DO WHAT EVERYONE ELSE IS DOING. EVERYONE USES PLASTIC STRAWS. PLASTIC STRAWS DON’T HARM THE ENVIRONMENT. SOLUTION: AWARENESS-RAISING CAMPAIGNS ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF SUPs + ALTERNATIVE PRACTICES AND SOCIAL GOALS. 2 CUSTOMER Do I segregate the trash? How do I dispose of plastic straws? I DON’T KNOW HOW TO SORT THESE PRODUCTS. I DON’T KNOW WHERE TO THROW THE PLASTIC STRAWS. THERE IS NO INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT. I DON’T SEE ANY TRASH BIN CLOSE BY. 3 I DON’T KNOW HOW TO DISPOSE OF THE STRAWS. RESTAURANT SOLUTION: CAPACITY BUILDING ON WASTE SEGREGATION + SALIENT cleaner MESSAGES + REMINDERS ON HOW TO DISPOSE OF THE WASTE. How do we get rid of the trash? BURN BURY LANDFILL * I ONLY HAVE THESE THREE OPTIONS FOR DISPOSAL. PLASTIC STRAWS DON’T HARM THE ENVIRONMENT. I AM NOT MOTIVATED TO TRY A BETTER METHOD. 4 *THESE ARE THE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE OPTIONS IN THE AREA. SOLUTION: ADEQUATE WASTE MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE CITY EMPLOYEE + HARNESS SEVERAL STAKEHOLDERS. plastic waste Mismanaged plastic waste accumulates on land, waterways, and clogs drains, often resulting in drainage congestion or vector-borne diseases. As rivers discharge into the sea, plastic pollution travels to the marine environment, affecting the whole ecosystem. Notes: The SUP journey in this figure outlines the decisions and actions of various stakeholders in relation to the use and disposal of a plastic straw. It depicts the overall journey of an SUP, a plastic straw, from initial use by businesses all the way through until disposal. Along the way, it features the relevant barriers (both structural and behavioral), and the different decision and action points with recommended solutions to promote desired behaviors. Source: World Bank Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 xii Summary of Barriers As well as these findings, certain barriers to the management of plastic waste were identified and recommendations made. These are summarized in the following. Capability barriers: > Lack of clarity on SUPs: Knowledge and understanding of SUPs varies among different stakeholders. In Cox’s Bazar, business owners and managers are generally aware of what SUPs are, but their staff (including cleaning staff), customers, and municipality employees often lack clear understanding. The municipality is neither seen as a source of information, nor is an actual source of information. > Lack of knowledge about alternatives to plastic products: There is a perceived absence or insufficient availability of affordable and convenient alternatives to plastic products in the market. Consumers in Dhaka continue to use plastics, because they do not have accessible or viable substitutes that meet their needs. > Lack of awareness of proper waste management practices: Dumping and burning are two ways in which businesses in Cox’s Bazar dispose of plastic waste. The decision to burn comes from a misguided belief that burning plastics reduces their harmful impact. > Lack of awareness about the consequences of the use of plastics for the environment and health: Business staff and customers in Cox’s Bazar are aware of the negative environmental impact of SUPs, but are less aware of how these impacts can affect them personally, which can create moral hazard. Businesses also tend to believe that customers are unaware and unconcerned about the harmful effects of SUPs, which does not appear to be true. A significant portion of the respondents in Dhaka have limited understanding of the negative consequences of the use of SUPs, which affects their ability to make informed decisions regarding the use and disposal of plastics. > Disconnect between personal behavior and negative consequences of the use of SUPs: Business owners and managers in Cox’s Bazar are not always conscious of how their SUP use is contributing to plastic pollution. For customers, how a product is packaged is not a consideration (beyond convenience and cleanliness) when using or purchasing products. > Reliance on government for changes: Most businesses in Cox’s Bazar expect the government to find suitable, affordable SUP alternatives to reduce their SUP use, revealing the idea of an external locus of control to shift to sustainable behaviors. > Knowledge gap on government regulations: Forty percent of respondents to the Dhaka study were not aware of relevant government regulations, which can lead to non-compliance and hinder the effectiveness of these regulations in reducing plastic pollution. > Limited decision-making power: Local staff employed in larger businesses in Cox’s Bazar may have limited decision-making power around use of SUP products. Opportunity barriers: > Lack of infrastructure for waste storage/disposal and inadequate waste disposal methods: There is no formal system for collecting plastic waste in Cox’s Bazar. Lack of proper plastic waste collection, disposal services, and infrastructure is a major barrier to proper waste disposal, for both businesses and customers. Businesses also provide no infrastructure to customers for segregating Executive Summary ES 1 2 3 4 5 xiii waste. In Dhaka, most of the waste is openly dumped. There is a lack of proper disposal sites and infrastructure for waste management in Dhaka. > Low reliability of waste collection services: Waste collection services provided by the municipality in Cox’s Bazar can be unreliable. Instead of waiting for proper channels, businesses end up dumping or burning plastic waste themselves. > Limited environmental cues: There are limited to no cues or signage encouraging tourists and locals in Cox’s Bazar to adopt sustainable consumption and waste disposal practices. > Lack of alternatives: Businesses in Cox’s Bazar do not see any alternatives to the SUP products that they are using in their operations. > Convenience of SUP products: Plastic products are considered more convenient than alternatives in both locations, due to their affordability, portability, durability, and relative cleanliness. SUP alternatives are also not always readily available. > Lack of role models to share knowledge and experiences: There is a lack of examples of success that show the benefits of not using plastics and being eco-friendly and how this can be achieved in Cox’s Bazar. > Social norms: The social norm in coastal areas is to use SUPs, and businesses feel no pressure from their customers to switch to alternatives. Customers, similarly, feel no pressure to stop using SUPs. Observing others using SUPs and littering can create a ‘bandwagon’ effect that makes it seem okay to engage in these practices. > Limited expectations about government enforcement of sustainable policies: Past experience and low-level of law enforcement by the authorities in Cox’s Bazar have resulted in businesses and individuals having limited expectations about the government’s ability to enact change. Motivation barriers: > Expectation that customers prefer SUPs: Businesses in Cox’s Bazar expect customers to have a strong preference for SUP products and attribute the choice of using SUPs to customer demand. To ensure the provision of a quality service and customer satisfaction, they are reluctant to introduce changes that may not match customer expectations. Customers, however, seem to be open to alternatives. > Low perceived need for behavior change: Although 93% of respondents in Dhaka believe that the use of plastic products needs to be reduced or stopped, this motivation is not translated into behavioral change. > Misguided environmental beliefs: The decision by businesses in Cox’s Bazar to incinerate plastic products is motivated by a misguided belief that burning plastics reduces the harmful consequences of plastic pollution for the environment. > Limited understanding of health impacts: Both businesses and customers in Cox’s Bazar mentioned the visible environmental consequences of plastic pollution, but few talked about its health impacts. > High cost of transitioning to alternatives: Businesses in Cox’s Bazar are open to switching to alternatives, but the cost of alternatives and reusable items is a concern. Businesses also fear that not offering SUPs will negatively affect their business, as they believe that customers prefer them. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 xiv > Habit: For customers in Cox’s Bazar, SUPs are readily and easily accessible and available, making them the default choice, requiring little consideration. Similarly, over 80% of respondents in Dhaka reported an increase in the use of plastic products, indicating that habits and convenience play a large role in their continued use. > Lack of accountability: Tourists and local residents in Cox’s Bazar litter SUP products, as they expect informal waste pickers to collect them. Businesses in the tourist sector feel that SUP producers need to be held accountable by the government, rather than placing the burden of change only on them. > Diffusion of responsibility: Among the respondents to the Dhaka study, perceptions about responsibility for controlling plastic pollution were distributed among the pourashava (city administration), the people themselves, environmental organizations, NGOs, and the government, indicating a potential diffusion of responsibility and a lack of directed motivation to initiate change. Summary of Recommendations Implement the SUP ban: > Ensure that adequate infrastructure is in place to enforce the ban on SUPs. > Educate stakeholders about the difference between SUPs, multiple-use plastics, and what kind of plastic products are safe to re-use. > Provide information to stakeholders about the benefits of the ban on SUPs, as well as the consequences of non-compliance. > Ensure that adequate SUP alternatives are easily available to consumers, businesses (including employees at various levels in the hierarchy), and shops. > Communicate through various media and social network channels about the reasons for the ban on SUPs and the availability of SUP alternatives, targeting different age groups and stakeholders. > Educate people, particularly the staff of hotels and businesses, about the importance of hygiene in using reusable products such as ceramic cups, glasses, and plates. Improve plastic waste disposal: > Designate adequate areas for accumulating segregated waste in several localities, so that people are encouraged to dispose of plastic waste in a proper manner. > Encourage the segregation of plastic waste at source by placing separate bins for recycling, for wet and dry waste, and for SUPs, with clear signage. > Communicate and reinforce instructions on how to segregate waste. > Provide training to consumers, businesses, employees, shop keepers, and hotel owners and staff on waste segregation and how to appropriately dispose of plastic waste. > Discourage littering by imposing fines and providing positive messages about a ‘clean environment’. > Highlight the impact of plastic waste on health. > Initiate activities in schools and colleges on waste segregation and the responsible disposal of plastic waste. Executive Summary ES 1 2 3 4 5 xv Strengthen government infrastructure for plastic waste disposal and management: > Provide designated areas for the appropriate disposal of plastic waste. > Ensure that garbage collection is carried out regularly and efficiently. > Provide adequate garbage bins for waste segregation in public places with appropriate signage in simple and clear language. > Train staff at different levels, particularly in the local administration. Develop meaningful partnerships for change: > Initiate public-private partnerships for the manufacture and distribution of SUP alternates. > Engage with various stakeholders for adapting to the use of SUP alternates and reusable products. > Engage with citizens’ groups, CBOs, and NGOs to spread the message and run campaigns promoting SUP alternates and the responsible disposal of plastic waste. 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. Increasing awareness is the first step, but adequate infrastructure and environmental cues need to be provided to enable businesses and individuals to engage in the desired behavior. The findings indicate that the lack, or inadequacy, of segregated waste disposal and collection facilities significantly impedes the potential for behavioral change. Hence, investment in waste management infrastructure is essential for any substantive shift towards sustainable practices. This entails not only improvements to the physical infrastructure, but the implementation of technology-driven solutions for monitoring and optimizing waste management practices. Concurrently, there needs to be a concerted effort to engage stakeholders in behavior change initiatives that align with a systemic transformation. Public awareness campaigns, education programs, and incentives for responsible waste disposal should be integrated into a holistic strategy. Collaborative efforts involving government bodies, private sectors, and local communities are essential to ensure sustainable and effective plastic waste management. In parallel, the government also needs to support the development of viable alternatives to SUPs and create linkages between producers and businesses to ensure that SUP alternatives are ready to meet demand. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management xvi Introduction ES 1 2 3 4 5 1 Chapter 1 Introduction _ ____ 1.1 The Context Bangladesh has experienced a significant increase in plastic consumption over the years, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and changes in consumer behavior. Bangladesh’s annual per capita plastic consumption in urban areas has tripled from 3.0 kg in 2005 to 9.0 kg in 2020 (World Bank 2021b). This rise in plastic usage contributes to the generation of plastic waste, including single-use plastics (SUPs), which easily break down into microplastics and are released into the environment, posing significant risk to humans and ecosystems. The most frequently found SUPs in the environment are disposable plastic bags, cutlery and cups, cigarette butts, straws, coffee stirrers, soda and water bottles, and food packaging (United Nations Environment Programme 2018). SUPs are used, and often preferred, by businesses and consumers due to their convenience, affordability, light weight and flexibility, and relative hygiene (Jambeck et al. 2015). Currently, the total generation of plastic waste in Bangladesh is around 977,000 tons of plastic per year, which accounts for 10% of the total volume of waste (World Bank 2021b). Rainwater runoff in urban areas can transport plastic litter and microplastics from the streets into the drainage system and eventually into rivers and water bodies. It was estimated that the water bodies (rivers and canals) of Bangladesh received 7,928 billion microbeads monthly, with the major cities, such as Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet, releasing 6,628.46, 1,087.18, and 221.38 billion microplastics, respectively, per month (ESDO 2016). It has been reported that the bed of the Buriganga river in Dhaka is covered in several feet of plastic bags (The Business Standard 2020). The marine ecosystem of the Bay of Bengal is also under threat from a large amount of floating macro and microplastics (Karim et al. 2019). Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, faces notable challenges with plastic waste management due to its substantial infrastructure and system deficits. Recent studies underscore limited or nonexistent segregated waste disposal and collection systems, which severely restrict the potential for meaningful shifts in behavior in relation to plastic waste (Kaza et al. 2018; World Bank 2021b). In Dhaka, which has the highest rate of waste collection in the country, 10% of municipal waste consists of plastics, of which 48% goes to landfill, 37% is recycled, 12% ends up in khals (drainage canals) and rivers, and 3% is dumped into drains and unserved areas of the city corporations (World Bank 2021b). The lack of proper waste management infrastructure poses a considerable challenge to waste management efforts, emphasizing the need for substantial investment in this area. Without well-established waste disposal and collection infrastructure, it is challenging to engage stakeholders in effective behavior change initiatives. Sustainable practices require systemic change, and the absence of essential infrastructure acts as a barrier to achieving this. It is crucial to address these deficits through strategic investment in waste management infrastructure to create an environment conducive to sustainable practices. Only with a robust system in place can stakeholders be effectively involved in initiatives promoting responsible plastic waste management in Dhaka. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 2 Bangladesh is proactively tackling plastic pollution with initiatives set in motion by plastic manufacturers, plastic recyclers, local governments and non-profit organisations as well as the 2020 High Court action enforcing the policy requirements and the development of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2021. In addition, the Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management (2021) maps out a comprehensive approach towards a circular economy across different sectors and timelines. _ ____ 1.2 About this Study The Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management in Bangladesh was endorsed by the government in 2021 and is being implemented in collaboration with the World Bank. The plan will be implemented in phases—short term (2022–2023), medium term (2024–2026), and long term (2027–2030)—allowing for priorities and limitations on financial resources and institutional capacities. The vision is to achieve a circular economy re-enforcing the 3R strategy (reduce, reuse, recycle) to avoid, intercept, and redesign plastics to achieve a green growth pathway for Bangladesh. One of the targets of the Action Plan is to phase out targeted SUPs by at least 90%. In 2020, the High Court ordered the Government of Bangladesh to ban the use of SUPs in hotels and restaurants in coastal areas within a year to reduce plastic pollution in the Bay of Bengal. The Government was also ordered to strictly enforce existing legislation, monitor plastic production, close down factories that manufacture polythene bags and plastic containers, and report to the High Court on progress. However, legal instruments such as bans and levies alone cannot stop or reduce the consumption of plastics; enforcement needs to be supported by practical and impactful initiatives with collaboration across the entire stakeholder landscape. Education, awareness raising programs, and social mobilization aimed at behavioral change towards using less plastics, reducing littering, and increasing source separation are important. Challenging the current throw-away culture and promoting the use of alternatives to plastic products in tandem with legal instruments would pave the way to reducing plastic waste and changing the perceptions and behavior of people. Plastic management, being a complex problem, there is not one single solution; a holistic integrated approach is needed and should consist of a mixture of infrastructure for waste management, as well as legal, financial, and communication instruments. To support the implementation of the Action Plan, two studies, one in Cox’s Bazar and one in Dhaka, were carried out on the perceptions and behavior of stakeholders with regard to plastic usage and waste management. The purpose of the qualitative behavioral diagnostic1 study in Cox’s Bazar was to identify structural2 and behavioral3 barriers to reducing SUP use and improving plastic waste management practices among businesses and individuals in coastal areas and to inform the design of the government’s communication strategy and campaign materials related to the upcoming SUP ban. The purpose of the perception survey in Dhaka was to gain insights into plastic usage and plastic waste disposal practices in the survey areas. The findings from these studies are presented in this report. These studies are expected to inform and guide the design and implementation of strategies to reduce the use of SUPs and improve plastic waste management and disposal practices in Bangladesh. 1 This approach examines the psychological, social, and economic factors that influence human behavior within a specific context, using methods such as in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. 2 Structural barriers are external factors that impact on behavior, such as the environment or resource availability. They include elements like physical infrastructure (e.g., recycling bins) and cultural contexts. 3 Behavioral barriers are psychological and social factors that hinder behavior change. They encompass preconceptions, beliefs, and automatic reactions. 3 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 4 Chapter 2 Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar _ ____ 2.1 Background This diagnostic study employed a behavioral science lens to identify structural and behavioral bottlenecks to reducing SUP use and improving plastic waste management among businesses and individuals in coastal areas, as well as supportive practices by local policymakers and other actors. The objective of the study was to inform the design of the government’s communication strategy and campaign materials regarding the reduction of SUP use and to improve plastic waste management practices. Given that businesses are some of the highest producers of SUP waste in coastal areas, the study focused on formal and informal businesses in these areas, particularly those operating in high-density tourist areas, as well as patrons of such businesses, including both tourists and locals. In doing so, it explored four key areas related to SUP use, as outlined in Table 1. Table 1 Themes and Research Questions for Cox’s Bazar Study Theme Research Questions SUP use, management > What is the level of SUP use? Why do people use SUPs? and disposal in coastal > How is plastic waste managed and disposed of? area > What is the product journey map for SUPs? > Who makes decisions related to SUPs use and waste management? > What kind of infrastructure is available for SUP waste management and disposal? Information, awareness, > What do people understand by SUPs? and beliefs around the use > What do people know about the impact of SUPs? How conscious are they? of SUPs and their impact > How do people know about SUPs and their impacts? > What is their source of information about SUPs? Adoption of SUP > What alternatives to SUPs are available? alternatives > What are the social norms around the use of SUP alternatives? > What are the barriers to adopting SUP alternatives? > What are enablers of adopting alternatives to SUPs? Government policy and > Are people aware of government policies related to SUPs, including the SUP ban? SUP ban > What are potential compliance barriers? > What opinion do people have about the potential ban on SUPs? What are their main concerns? Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 5 Box 1 Why Do a Qualitative Behavioral Diagnostic? A behavioral sciences approach draws from multiple disciplines to enrich the understanding of influences on human behavior in a specific context. A behaviorally-informed diagnostic can complement standard diagnostics by expanding the focus of analysis. While standard diagnostics focus primarily on identifying structural challenges to policy outcomes of interest from an informational, economic, and regulatory standpoint, a behavioral diagnostic additionally focuses on social dynamics and psychological influences, which are often overlooked in traditional assessments, to inform policy. To design policies, programs, and interventions that work, it is important understand how people’s perceptions, thinking, and behavior shape and relate to the challenges and outcomes related to the behaviors of interest. A behavioral science lens to understanding the barriers to reducing SUP use and improving plastic waste management considers a broader set of influences, emphasizing psychological (preconceptions, perceptions, beliefs, and automatic reactions), social (the influence of society and how people interact), and economic (influence of financial and human capital resources, or lack thereof) factors that affect what people think and do. To do this effectively, it is important to explore the decision-making processes of relevant stakeholders, understand the context and environment within which they operate, and how these shape the choices and actions they take. A qualitative methodology is appropriate, as it allows a more in-depth, open-ended exploration of individuals’ experiences, perspectives, and behaviors, which can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of their thought processes and the social and cultural context within which these behaviors and decisions occur. _ ____ 2.2 Conceptual Framework: COM-B To inform the design of behavior change interventions and communication campaigns to reduce SUP use and improve plastic waste management practices, it is necessary to identify and address the key behaviors that need to change and the enablers and barriers to these behavior changes. Behavioral science offers a range of theories and evidence-based approaches to facilitate the process of identifying these behavioral influences. This study uses the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Behavior (COM-B) model as a framework to guide the diagnostic (Michie et al. 2011a). The model offers a pluralistic framework that considers situational factors such as resources and context, as well as psychological factors such as cognitive process, psychological capacity, and knowledge, etc. The COM-B model posits that for an individual to engage in a particular behavior (B)—in this case, reduce use or replace SUP products and engage in sustainable waste management practices—an individual needs physical and psychological capability (C), social and physical opportunity (O), and reflective and automatic motivation (M), as demonstrated in Figure 1. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 6 Figure 1 Conceptual Framework Capability Motivation Behaviour Opportunity Source: World Bank, based on Michie et al. (2011a) Notes: Capability refers to psychological and physical capability, where psychological capability is the capacity to engage in the thought processes necessary to create the intent to perform the behavior, and physical capability is the capacity to engage in the physical activity necessary for performance of the behavior. Opportunity includes factors that are outside the individual’s direct control that can prompt or make a behavior take place. It is divided into physical opportunity (the opportunities provided by the environment such as curb-side collection services and recycling bins) and social opportunity (the impact of the cultural context on our thoughts and beliefs). Lastly, motivation is divided into reflective and automatic motivation. Reflective motivation concerns evaluations and beliefs that are relevant to the behavior while automatic motivation refers to the emotions and impulses or habits that are relevant to the behavior and may be activated by contextual cues. The COM-B model provides a useful framework for identifying the various individual, social, and environmental influences on behavior, and has previously been applied to understanding environmentally significant behaviors, e.g., food consumption (Hedin et al. 2019; Graça et al. 2019), water conservation (Addo et al. 2018), recycling (Gainforth et al. 2016), and even plastic waste (Allison et al. 2021a; Allison et al. 2021b) management studies. This study allows exploration of the capabilities, opportunities, and motivations around SUP use and waste management in coastal Bangladesh and contributes to the identification of behavior change strategies to remove multifaceted barriers related to SUP use. Table 2 presents how the COM-B model has been applied to develop the analytical framework for this study. By categorizing barriers within the COM-B model’s dimensions, the study provides a structured method for crafting targeted strategies to address the complex challenges of plastic use and waste management. It is noted that a significant portion of the structural impediments fall within the ‘physical opportunity’ aspect of the model. This underscores the necessity for modifications to both the physical and social environments to facilitate sustainable behavior change. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 7 Table 2 Analytical Framework for Cox’s Bazar Study Theme Physical Decision making power of the employees at different hierarchies that affects the use of Capacity SUPs – determined by analyzing the different positions within a business where decisions are being taken about the use of materials and waste management modalities, etc. Psychological Understanding terminology, labels, jargons, and concepts related to plastic waste Capacity management and SUPs Awareness of problems created by plastic waste, especially SUPs – including environmental hazards, menace to the sewerage system, and loss of maritime facilities, etc. Awareness of proper waste management and disposal practices – looks at whether individuals and or businesses know what are the appropriate and sustainable ways to manage and dispose of plastic waste, especially SUPs Attention to product packaging and labelling – focuses on whether users and customers are conscious of packaging, or only interested in the product therein, i.e., other product qualities take precedence Packaging preferences of customers about the consumables they purchase or demand for SUPs from customers – describes the choice of different sorts of packaging in different cases, which may be governed by functionality, look, weight, or other factors Information and informative resources – focuses on the different sources of information, their trustworthiness, and the extent of the availability of information resources Physical Access to plastic waste management system for both business and customers and general Opportunity public, including services provided by authorities Features of the physical environment (including environmental cues such as signs, infrastructure, etc. that can trigger behavior) Availability of reusable alternatives to SUP (i.e., products made of paper, wood, bamboo or any other reusable substance) Social Social norms, whether they are favorable or against the use of alternatives to plastics, Opportunity especially SUPs, and what others around them do Government policies that are already in place, as well as those that are to be enacted, and whether people have knowledge about these, as well as perceptions regarding relevant government policies Automatic Environmental concerns and emotional experiences regarding consumption practices Motivation and waste management Personal habits, without knowing the benefits of using alternatives Reflective Beliefs about environmental impacts of SUPs – whether people understand the dangerous Motivation impacts of plastics upon environment Beliefs about capability – people’s faith in themselves to use smart alternatives without harming their consumption patterns and so forth Resolve to behave pro-environmentally; emotions regarding waste Business related motivations – motivation towards the use of alternatives to plastics that are inspiring business enterprises to do so Skepticism about decomposition claims of alternatives to SUPs and other negative thoughts that may hamper the introduction and wide use of the alternatives Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 8 _ ____ 2.3 Methodology __ ____ 2.3.1_ Study Area The target areas for this study were tourist spots around the coastal belt of the country, as shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 Study Area Map in the Coastal Area Source: World Bank Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 9 __ ____ 2.3.2_ Stakeholders and Respondents This study looked at three major categories of stakeholders: > Providers and business entities: Managers and staff (including restaurant staff and cleaners) at hotels, eco-resorts, restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, small vendors, and positive deviants (restaurants or shops that have significantly reduced SUP use or use of plastics overall and are trying to stop their use) around the main tourist areas by the beach > End-users or customers: Tourists, short-term hotel guests, and customers at restaurants or grocery stores > Municipality or government entity: Staff involved in the solid waste management process at the Cox’s Bazar Pourasabha Respondents were identified from these stakeholders through purposive sampling using a list of businesses from the Department of Energy. __ ____ 2.3.3_ Study Approach and Methodology The study employed a behavioral science-informed diagnostic approach, drawing from multiple disciplines to enhance the understanding of human behavior within the specific context of plastic waste management. The use of multiple methods in formative research has been seen to have several advantages, including informational convergence (Ayala et al. 2001), development of an intervention framework or matrix, guides to intervention planning, and understanding of the cultural and ethnic diversity of the targeted audience. Figure 3 shows the overall methodology applied in this study. Figure 3 Study Methodology FLOW OF THE RESEARCH WORK Secondary Primary Outcome Study Data > Previous research > In-depth Interview (IDI) > Structural barriers > Relevant news > Focus Group Discussion (FGD) > Behavioural barriers > Observations > Strategies > Photo diary > Positive deviants Source: World Bank In addition to secondary research, three qualitative methods were used for collection of primary data: focus group discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews (IDIs) and semi-structured in-field observations. The primary data was collect from 21 September to 17 October 2022. See Table 3 for a summary of the sample and methods used. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 10 > IDIs were conducted with business managers and staff, vendors, and customers to explore the plastic use behavior of relevant stakeholders. In addition, an interview was also conducted with project personnel from UNDP’s Solid Waste Management project in Ukhiya and Teknaf (upazillas). In total, 77 IDIs were conducted with these stakeholders. > Two FGDs were conducted at the local municipality office premises with personnel involved in plastic disposal and collection process. These participants were identified based on their expected knowledge about the plastic use behavior of locals and tourists, as they work in the locality and at popular tourists spots. Each FGD group contained six to eight participants. One consisted of sweepers and cleaners from the Cox’s Bazar Municipality and the other consisted of supervisors of cleaning staff. > In-field observations were used to identify the behavior of managers and customers at different restaurants and hotels vis-à-vis plastic use, relevant messages (posters, billboards etc.), waste collection and disposal infrastructure, waste bin usage, and other behaviors at restaurants, local markets, main streets, and beach areas. There were eight observations in total. During the observations, researchers also took photographs with their digital devices, which were subsequently annotated by the researchers. These complemented the field notes, making the observations more in-depth. The photographs were also used to sketch out a product journey map for an SUP product (i.e., a plastic bottle). Table 3 Sampling in Cox’s Bazar Study Number of Method Target Group Sample Respondents/ Groups Managers 4 Hotels or motels (mostly those using SUP Employees/staff 4 in their facilities) (large and medium) Cleaners 4 Shops (medium and small including Owner/managers 24 restaurants, fast food shop, food beach vendors, supermarkets) Staff Managers 2 Eco-resorts (hotels or motels that use less Employees/staff 2 than 25% SUP) (large and medium) IDIs Cleaners 2 Shops (positive deviants) (small and medium) Owners/managers 4 Tourists (from large and medium hotels and 8 eco-resorts) Customers (of small and medium hotels, supermarkets, vendors, restaurants, fast food 22 shops, positive deviant shops) Project person from NGO (Practical Action, 1 UNDP) Restaurants 2 Observations Local markets 2 and photo Main street (infrastructure, bin usage, etc.) 2 diaries Beaches 2 Local municipal authority (cleanliness section, Department of Health, Family FGDs 14 (2 groups) Planning and Cleanliness, Cox’s Bazar Pourasabha): sweepers and supervisors Total 99 Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 11 __ ____ 2.3.4_ Data Analysis The recordings of the interviews and FGDs were transcribed and imported into NVivo package Version 12. Using NVivo, the data was analyzed to identify the key words used by the participants or in the documents. The research questions were also considered and the ‘main codes’ for the NVivo analysis were framed in consideration of both, i.e., keywords and research questions. The sub-codes within each of the codes emerged during the analysis and were reported in a logical sequence. As with qualitative studies, the results are not intended to be representative. Rather, they provide an in-depth view of the stakeholders’ experiences, beliefs, and behaviors related to this issue. _ ____ 2.4 Findings __ ____ 2.4.1_ Plastic Use The study found that plastic products are widely used by businesses and consumers in the coastal areas, because they are cheap, lightweight, and durable (do not break easily). During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–21, many SUP-based safety products, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), surgical masks and gloves, were also frequently used. Figure 4 provides a summary of frequently used plastic products, as reported by study respondents. Figure 4 Categories of Plastic Products Used Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 12 Most Used by Businesses According to the managers of medium-sized hotels, bathroom cleaning materials such as toilet cleaning liquids, a variety of tissue boxes, soap-shampoo mini packs, and toothpaste, etc. are the most used plastic items in the hotel business. Water bottles and polythene used in packets of cake, sugar, biscuit, chips, and tea bags were also mentioned as frequently used by personnel (cleaning staff) at eco-resorts and large hotels. Most Used by Customers According to the owners, managers, and staff at different hotels, restaurants, and shops, customers most frequently used the following plastic products: polyethene bags (these were the most frequently used plastics), mineral water bottles and soft drinks bottles, single use cups, spoons, plates and bowls, tissue paper boxes, parcel boxes, cigarette packets, cotton buds, shampoo and soap packs, toothbrushes, and toothpaste packs. Customers reported using polythene bags, chip packets, and water bottles the most. Positive deviants reported using water bottles most often. Cleaning supervisors from the municipal authority think that packets of oral saline and single use cups are the most frequently used plastics by customers. __ ____ 2.4.2_ Management of Plastic Waste Supervisors and cleaning staff from the municipal authority, i.e., Pourasabha, reported that there is no formal system for collecting plastic waste in Cox’s Bazar. Generally, waste collectors from the municipality collect plastic waste from source points, either separated or combined. In many cases informal collectors collect plastic waste from open sources and sell the waste to small scrap-shops (bhangari) at a cheap price. These scrap- shops subsequently sell the plastic waste to recyclers, if available. According to the city corporation cleaners, their supervisors are directed by the inspectors or higher authorities to make public announcements to create awareness about waste management and the proper use of dustbins by citizens. The content of these messages is centered around raising awareness about littering and the negative impacts of mismanaged waste on the environment. However, no specific messages were visible in the study area during the fieldwork. According to hotel managers, the daily garbage generated by businesses is collected by city corporation vehicles. Hotel and restaurant managers also reported that polythene and biodegradable waste, including shells, are incinerated, and then added to the soil as compost. The remainder of this section elaborates on the plastic waste management process in terms segregation, waste collection, waste disposal, and recycling options. As shown in Figure 5, dumping (and burying) appears to be the most common form of waste disposal reported by respondents. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 13 Figure 5 Waste Disposal Practices Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Segregation According to hotel managers, hotels usually manage the waste generated from their kitchens, which consists of mostly perishable items, by themselves, as the municipality does not collect the waste on a regular basis. This is done by dumping the waste in a hole and covering it up with soil or incinerating the overflow of waste. Dry waste, coming from rooms and restaurants, is dumped into a different hole, over a period of 1–2 weeks, as such waste does not smell, than covered with soil. Polythene from the kitchen is also kept as dry waste. In terms of segregation, hotel staff report separating plastics from other forms of waste. Plastic waste, mostly water bottles, is sold to trash collectors for recycling. The remaining plastic waste is collected by the municipal cleaners. Cleaners in hotels and motels, as per the instructions of top management, segregate the plastic waste collected from hotel rooms as much as possible. When asked about the rationale for segregation, supervisors mentioned that while they did not have any in-service training or workshops on this topic, they had learned from their employers that plastic waste does not degrade easily and must be incinerated or buried. Food vendors, similarly, do not dispose of all waste materials together. They segregate water bottles and polythene bags from other waste. Water bottles are sold to scrap shops for profit (although this is not a significant incentive for modifying plastic use behavior), while polythene bags are burnt or dumped and covered with soil. Customers of large and medium hotels dispose of all their waste together and report never having seen any segregation facility for plastic products, such as chips packets or water bottles, from other types of waste. Waste is not separated at the source, as no separate bins are provided in rooms. On the other hand, eco-resorts claim to be almost free from any type of plastic usage and, therefore, do not require segregation, other than of dry and wet waste. They try to avoid using plastics, such as single-use packets of shampoo and soap, and use glass bottles for shampoo, soap, and oil in the bathrooms. Waste Collection Managers from hotels, restaurants and shops all reported similar waste collection methods. In small shops, cleaning staff or managers collect the waste and store it at a place designated by the management for this Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 14 purpose. Cleaning staff reported that cleaners from the municipality come twice a day—once in the morning and once in the afternoon—to collect waste from supermarkets and shopping malls. For small shops, plastic waste generated by customers is stored and burnt. The waste burning takes place mostly during winter. Customers are served tea or water in single-use or disposable cups. Once these are used, shopkeepers are responsible for disposing of them in dustbins. After that, cleaners from the city corporation collect the waste in garbage trucks, which they throw in a dumping ground. Overall, most restaurant and hotel managers, small shop owners, and food vendors reported that city corporation’s garbage trucks do not come regularly and, sometimes, come late. Not all locations fall within their route either and garbage truck drivers have their weekly holiday on Fridays. All these factors make it difficult for people in this area to dispose of waste in the dedicated dustbins, which are small in size. As soon as the bins are full, people start littering. The respondents suggested increasing the size of dustbins to deal with this challenge. Customers, too, identified similar structural bottlenecks. Customers from different hotels, restaurants, and shops reported looking for dustbins and using them when they are available. However, they said that they do not know what happens to this waste later. Waste Disposal Hotel managers and employees mentioned that cleaners collect waste from rooms, kitchens, and restaurants, which they bury by digging a hole. According to the cleaning staff of different eco-resorts and food vendors, plastic waste is disposed of by burning. The managers of shops, restaurants and supermarkets shared that waste disposal largely depends on the services from the municipal authority, especially in Sadar Upazilla in Cox’s Bazar. In Ukhiya Upazilla in Cox’s Bazar, these shops still depend on landfill for disposal. Overall, waste disposal involves three different methods: > Landfill: In the absence of sufficient infrastructure and initiatives from the city corporation, hotel, and restaurant management (especially in Ukhiya) bury the solid waste. Staff from the municipal authority usually dig a large hole at a suitable place and bury the waste there. > Burning: Combustible waste is also burnt down to ashes in open air. However, businesses that are more conscious environmentally do recognize the risks associated with this. One of the managers of a shop identified as a positive deviant said: “People think that ashes will be blown away and won’t clog waterways. However, they are ignorant about the severity of microplastics. Even ashes are eventually washed out to the sea by rainwater, creating far-reaching impacts on the maritime environment. Fumes from burning plastic waste have a negative impact on the air quality as well.” > Disposal by city corporation: Cleaners engaged by the respective department of the city corporation collect waste from end-users and dispose of it, either by burning or burying. The managers of hotels and motels do not know about the details of this process. Recycling4 Knowledge about the recycling process is low overall. Hotel staff who were interviewed were generally unaware of any recycling mechanisms. Most customers of small shops were also unsure about the recycling process for plastic waste. However, a few believe that the city corporation collects plastic waste from various places and dumps it in a specific waste ground. Scrap dealers then take the bottles from there or informal waste pickers take the plastic bottles from dustbins and sell them for money. Customers think that these plastics are 4 As recycling is not common practice in this area, respondents were also asked what they think happens to plastic products, in terms of recycling, once they are thrown away. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 15 eventually melted down and resold. Lastly, according to small shopkeepers, people drink water at various public places and throw away the bottles around the beach. Informal waste pickers then collect the discarded bottles from the road and sell them at bhangari shops, which send the bottles to Dhaka where they are recycled by some companies. Positive Deviants and Possible Alternatives to Plastics Businesses that use limited SUPs and avoid the use of plastic because it is harmful to the environment are called positive deviants. These hotels provide wooden toothbrushes to customers instead of using plastic products and do not use disposable plates, glasses, or spoons. Their products are delivered in fiber or cloth shopping bags, and they use paper or food grade boxes and paper cups instead of plastic ones. However, they are compelled to use plastic straws, plastic containers for freezing foods, and plastic bins for keeping waste and garbage. These businesses consciously avoid using SUP products, instead shifting to suitable alternatives that are environmentally friendly and healthy. However, these ecofriendly options can be sustained only when a significant number of customers are willing to choose them and forgo the convenience and low cost of SUPs. Interviews with the management of eco-friendly hotels and restaurants revealed that demand for eco-friendly alternatives by customers and their willingness to pay premium prices for them are what enables businesses to use these products. They usually have a loyal customer base who prefer eco-friendly products and do not mind paying slightly more than the usual market price. __ ____ 2.4.3_ Behavioral Drivers and Bottlenecks to Reducing SUP Use: Applying the COM-B Model Psychological Capability > Understanding the terminology and concepts about plastic waste and SUPs All of the owners, managers, staff, and cleaners of hotels and eco-resorts had some idea about SUPs. When asked for concrete examples of SUPs used in their daily businesses, they referred to plastic products that are disposed of after one use. However, this knowledge has no apparent impact on reducing the use of SUPs. Hotel managers had some knowledge about SUPs. They mentioned Single-use plastic means that it must be disposed cotton buds, toothbrushes, shampoo, and soap packaging as examples of of after one use. One such SUP products. However, two of the staff interviewed and all of the cleaning plastic is a water bottle. staff lacked understanding of what the term SUP means, although they were Even juice bottles are single- able to understand what the term means after the interviewer provided an use plastics. (IDI, Manager, explanation. Medium Shop) On the other hand, all owners and shop managers had knowledge about SUPs. Polyethene bags were examples of SUPs given by managers of shops in the supermarket, while owners of small shops mentioned one- time glasses, one-time cups, chips packets, biscuit packets, water bottles, and juice bottles. A similar definition of SUPs was given by all restaurant and fast-food shop managers and the majority of food vendors. Their examples included polythene, parcels and food boxes, mineral water bottles, plastic straws and one-time glasses, cups, and spoons. However, 2 vendors (out of 10 interviewed) did not understand what SUPs were. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 16 Customers, on the other hand, showed little knowledge about SUPs. Only 4 out of 30 customers (those from eco-friendly restaurants) knew what SUPs were, while the rest lacked any knowledge about the definition or properties of SUPs. Interestingly, supervisors and cleaners from the municipal authority also had little to no knowledge about SUPs, although they knew that plastics were harmful to the environment. > Awareness of problems created by plastic waste All respondents—from business entities, staff, food vendors, and eco-resorts—believed that awareness campaigns would increase consciousness about SUPs among consumers. Almost all stakeholders were aware that plastics are harmful to the environment, that they are not biodegradable, accumulate and block rivers and drains, affect soil fertility and biodiversity, contain harmful chemicals, and so forth. However, there was less mention of specific health consequences, except for carcinogens and diseases due to fumes from the burning of plastics. Figure 6 shows how frequently the different types of consequences were mentioned by different respondents.5 Figure 6 Consequences of SUP Use Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Most of the customers (24 out of 30) shared concerns about the Some people are aware, not everyone is aware. Different environmental impact of plastic waste, including concerns about classes of people come the ecosystem and natural environment. However, all hotel managers here from different places. opined that people are not aware of the hazards of plastic waste, especially Everyone doesn’t know about the impact of using based on their actions (for example, littering and use of SUP products). They SUPs for several times. (IDI, believe that while some SUP users may know about their harmful effects, Manager, Large Hotel) they do not care, and this is reflected in their waste disposal behavior. Some of the categories overlap, but were left as is to reflect how respondents framed the consequences. 5 Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 17 Beach and roadside food vendors similarly said that people are not There are dustbins outside, aware of the impact of SUPs or proper waste disposal processes. but people are not using Customers do not use dustbins, even when available, to dispose of their those for waste disposal. There should be sign-boards plastic waste, which reflects their lack of awareness. These vendors suggested placed saying that throwing providing awareness building banners and airing TV advertisements to garbage on the beach is make people more aware of the impact of using SUPs. forbidden. (IDI, Manager, Food Vendor, Beach Side) All eco-resort staff who responded appear to be aware of the When I go around the town, I see that the water environmental hazards caused by plastic waste, especially SUPs, and is stagnant due to plastics. try to avoid using SUPs as a result. Thus, plastic things are more harmful. (IDI, Cleaning Staff, Eco-Resort) The same is true for all respondents from medium I think reusing is more harmful as germs or small shops and supermarkets. However, remain in it [the plastic]. In that case it is misconceptions—for example, the idea that reusing might better not to use it at all. Anything should be used once. By burning, however, the cause germs to reproduce in the materials used—cause germs might disappear, but mix in the air. them to refrain from reusing and recycling plastic materials. The air will then be harmful. That is why it is better to bury the plastic waste. (IDI, Staff, Supermarket, Cox Sadar) > Attention to product packaging, labelling, and packaging preferences Owners or managers from different hotels, as well as eco-friendly resorts, stated that they had not considered product packaging (and what considerations, such as functionality, aesthetics, cleanliness, or other factors govern the choice of packaging), revealing a lack of attention to the packaging of products used in their businesses. Eight (8) out of 12 respondents from hotels believed that customers preferred one-time cups over reusable ones, due to the ease of carrying them when out on the beach. Given that the idea of a five-star hotel is to ensure complete customer satisfaction, this is a major barrier to introducing products like reusable cups. Food vendors also expect customers to prefer SUPs for various Tourists do not drink coconut water without a straw. They reasons, such as concerns about the cleanliness of reusable products. ask for one time cup to have Similarly, two out of the three managers of fast-food shops shared that tea. Even if waiters serve tea in mugs, they ask for a one customers prefer one-time cups for coffee or tea, and fear that offering time cup giving the excuse alternatives may hamper their business. that the mug is dirty. (IDI, Food Vendor, Cox Sadar) Indeed, both staff and customers agreed that people do not want to hold a ceramic mug, but prefer to roam around with a disposable cup and enjoy their drink. This suggests that people may not be willing to compromise their comfort, even if they could do so. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 18 Customers interviewed also mentioned that they care about quality If you go to shops to buy even a hundred grams of when choosing products, but packaging plays an insignificant role products, shopkeepers give in their decisions. However, they do agree that the light weight of plastic a polythene bag to hold it. products make them convenient for packaging purposes. And we have become so idle that we do not want to put anything in our hands. (IDI, Customer, Cox Sadar) > Information and informative resources Sources of information seem to be different for managers and staff compared to customers. Managers and other staff of hotels, restaurants, and fast food shops mentioned that their main source of information was government websites, online news media, and social networking sites. Many must visit these sites regularly for the interest of the business, while some access them based on a general concern. Additional sources mentioned were books, awareness campaigns, and training programs. Five (5) out of 30 customers talked about awareness programs and seminars arranged by local and international NGOs. Physical Capability > Decision making power of employees at different levels of organizational hierarchy on SUP use and waste management Policy formulation and decision-making, which impact overall We have housekeeping practices on plastic usage and use of alternatives, happens at department involved with the waste management different levels of the organizational hierarchy. The autonomy of system. The manager of employees when it comes to making decisions on product usage affects how our hotel supervises the waste is managed. For example, all managers and staff at large and medium housekeeping department. sized hotels shared that their general managers provide instructions on how (IDI, Manager, Large Hotel) to deal with SUPs and monitor the overall waste management system, and hotel staff only follow the general manager’s instructions. In large hotels, the waste management systems are also monitored by the general manager and usually involves the housekeeping department. Cleaning staff and hotel supervisors also follow the manager’s instruction. The size of the business influences who makes waste management decisions. Eight (8) out of 10 respondents from eco-friendly businesses mentioned that the manager is the main decision maker when it comes to waste management in eco-resorts, while only 2 mentioned that the managing director is responsible for SUP usage and waste management systems. In supermarkets, managers are responsible for these decisions. However, for small and medium shops, all six respondents mentioned that shops owners themselves were responsible for decisions around waste management and SUP use. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 19 Box 2 Summary of Capability Barriers > Knowledge of what the term SUP means and what counts as an SUP varies among different stakeholders. Hotel managers, shop owners, and most food vendors are generally aware of what SUPs are, but their staff and customers, as well as municipality employees, lack understanding of the distinction between SUPs and other products. Those who are aware of SUPs typically define them as plastic products that need to be disposed of after a single use. > Both business personnel and customers are aware of the negative environmental impact of SUPs. However, this knowledge does not translate into sustainable practices and action on the part of consumers, who continue to litter and engage in the improper disposal of SUPs. Campaigns to raise awareness of these issues among customers was strongly recommended by businesses. > Relatively fewer health impacts of SUPs were mentioned by respondents. On the other hand, a major health concern relates to reusing plastic products, which can contain and spread germs. > Business owners and managers are not particularly conscious of how SUP packaging materials of products used in their business can contribute to plastic pollution. Customers also appear to not pay attention to the type of packaging for the products they use and care more about the quality of the product. > Businesses, independent of size and level of formality, consider customers’ preference of SUPs and their lack of awareness of the need for more sustainable materials as a key barrier to adopting SUP alternatives. Both businesses and customers agree that the convenience, portability, and relative hygiene of SUPs are what make them attractive over alternative products. > The Internet is the most common source of information, although programs and seminars by NGOs have also contributed to educating people about the effects of SUPs on the environment. Social media sites such as Facebook are recommended as platforms for awareness raising. > Decision making around SUP use and waste management happens at different levels of the organizational hierarchy, depending on the size of the business. For large and medium hotels, the general managers make decisions, while housekeeping and cleaning staff are responsible for carrying out waste management activities. Managers also make decisions at supermarkets, while owners of small and medium shops make these decisions themselves. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 20 Physical Opportunity > Access to plastic waste management system for businesses and customers As noted earlier, inadequate access to proper SUP management and disposal systems from the authorities is a major barrier, as no formal processes and guidelines exist on how to dispose of these products. Respondents from the city corporation also pointed to physical and human resource shortages as contributing to the inadequacy of services. City corporation cleaners admitted that the number of dustbins provided by city corporations is insufficient. Cleaners themselves are unable to collect waste properly as they lack gumboots and gloves. Lack of human resources among city corporation cleaning staff creates further difficulties in maintaining regular operations. According to most restaurant managers and food vendors, there may be a motivational driver for this, as cleaners and garbage truck drivers employed by the city corporation are dissatisfied with their salary structure and, hence, lack interest and motivation to perform their functions regularly. However, all six shop owners mentioned that they keep I have had two dustbins in my shop waste bins in front of their shops so that customers can since I started the shop. One year ago, BRAC [an international development throw their waste into bins, instead of carrying waste organization based in Bangladesh] around with them. One of the shop owners also mentioned provided separate dustbins to segregate segregating water bottles and polythene bags from other form waste, but the sweepers only come of waste and selling these segregated plastic waste to plastic every alternative day, which creates a problem. We separate other waste from trash collectors who recycle them later. coke bottles and water bottles. (IDI, Manager, Medium Shop) Lack of proper waste disposal and collection also affects eco-resorts, which are otherwise more environmentally We have a committee of four members. As we buy many things from the market, conscious and sustainable in their practices. Eco-resorts plastic comes, we don’t throw it away. reported continuing to use polythene to stock waste in baskets We keep it in a basket, cover it with and to cover waste before burying it. The distance to the burying polythene, and take it about a kilometer site makes it necessary to use covers during transportation. away, where we put it in a hole and bury it, so that it does not get washed away Eco-resorts also end up with plastic products from the market or cause harm to anyone. That’s why we that they must incinerate and cover with soil to prevent it from burn it completely and then cover it with being washed away. soil. I burn it and finish it completely so that the remains do not go to anyone. Water should not come to the beach and create any kind of garbage. (IDI, Staff, Eco-Resort Large) > Features of the physical environment Environmental cues such as signs, billboards, and waste disposal infrastructure can trigger proper waste management practices among the public. All respondents from businesses agreed about the importance of awareness raising communication, such as notices, signs, and message-posts, regarding the harmful impacts of SUPs and plastic waste. Customers, too, agreed with the benefits of spreading such messages in public places. However, these types of physical signs are scant in the tourist areas and, where they do exist, the message conveyed is not clear and actionable (as shown in Figure 7). Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 21 Figure 7 Billboard at Sugandha Beach-Side Road, Cox’s Bazar Source: World Bank > Availability of reusable alternatives to SUPs Managers, employees, and cleaning staff from hotels are not aware of any alternatives to the SUPs they are currently using in their businesses. Vendors, owners, and managers of different restaurants and fast food outlets also shared similar views on the limited availability of alternative products. Among shopkeepers, two out of eight mentioned that there are no alternatives to water bottles, making it impossible for them to comply with the ban on SUPs. In their opinion, the law should be about reusing or destroying these items, rather than stopping their use altogether. Before enforcing a ban, the government should create permanent and sustainable solutions and, concurrently, control the production of plastics, rather than simply banning its use. However, interviews with positive deviants revealed that We can use leather or alternatives do exist. These businesses use SUP alternatives, such as tailormade bags instead of plastic bags. We even use oil wooden toothbrushes and shopping bags made of cloth or other fibers, paper boxes for food instead and do not use disposable plates, glasses, or spoons in their shops or of one time plates made of restaurants. What enables them to do so is the demand for eco-friendly plastic. Options are there, you see. (IDI, Manager, products by customers who prioritize environment-friendly businesses and Positive Deviant) practices. Their awareness motivates them to pay more if required, which subsequently allows and incentivizes businesses to offer these products. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 22 Figure 8 Alternatives Used by Eco-Resorts in Cox’s Bazar Ceramic cups, wooden coasters, bamboo plates, trays, and straws Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 However, 7 out of the 10 positive deviants interviewed We haven’t found any such option yet. But we are searching for these types of alternatives to felt that these alternatives are not sufficient. One of SUPs. Someone was making one time plates them suggested that the government should provide and spoons out of betel nut. If this kind of alternatives to plastics before banning plastic use and material can be used to make straws, just like as paper cups and paper plates, we won’t use encourage people to use those alternatives. plastics at all. (IDI, Manager, Positive Deviant) Replacing SUPs or switching to alternatives will require the provision of sustainable options that provide economically feasible opportunities for businesses to make this transition. > Beliefs about capability During the interviews, participants mentioned how much they believed in the possibility of finding alternatives to SUPs by themselves. Out of the 10 hotel staff interviewed, 4 said that they think that the government cannot ban plastic-producing factories, which is the main bottleneck in the plastic ban. Out of 30 customers, 8 said that people in Bangladesh lack the motivation to stop the use of plastics, as they are not accustomed to obeying any law unless pressure is created by the law-enforcing authority. Four (4) out of 8 shopkeepers said that they cannot see any alternative to a plastic water bottle and, thus, there seems no way to comply with the ban on SUPs, according to them. They said that they think that the law must support either the reuse or destruction of SUPs. Social Opportunity > Social norms This section explores the existing social norms and practices around the use of plastics, especially SUPs, and alternatives. Overall, the findings suggest that the large-scale use of plastics is very commonplace in Cox’s Bazar and is the ‘normal’ way of doing things. All employees from hotels, shops, and restaurants reported not If you go to a hotel, you see experiencing any demand from customers to use alternatives to people are using plastics. But in our restaurant, the straw plastic products. However, employees and managers of eco-friendly is made of bamboo and the businesses and resorts described a slightly different experiences. According plates are made of wood. Customers get a different type to one eco-resort staff, when they use alternative products (for example, of feeling here. (IDI, Cleaning serve drinks with straws or cups made with natural materials), there is Staff, Eco-Resort) visible satisfaction from their clients. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 23 Employees at these businesses also shared experiencing a I joined here [the eco-resort] in change in their own preferences, due to the environment in which 2012. After joining, I saw the natural they work. environment of Mermaid and stayed here. It has been almost 10 years now. There were many offers to join other places, but I do not want to go outside after seeing the environment-friendly company. I liked being natural. (IDI, Manager, Eco-Resort) > Government policies According to hotel managers, although the government As far as I know, the government has has policies in place pertaining to reducing the use of banned the use of polythene, but the law should be imposed and plastic bags SUPs and plastic products, there remains a huge gap in should be banned. We should use paper the implementation and enforcement of these policies. All or disposable bags. (IDI, Manager, Hotel) managers, employees, and staff at different hotels agreed that We know that there are rules. There are government policies play the most important role in influencing policies or laws related to this, there are punishment provisions – we know all of the volume of plastics used by businesses, but policies need to these things. But they are not actually be effectively implemented for that to happen. Shop owners and being implemented. We want them to be managers shared similar views. One of the three fast food shop implemented. (IDI, Manager, Fast Food Shop, Cox Sadar) owners interviewed mentioned that the government does not implement all of the policies it has in place to reduce SUP use, even though businesses like his would support such policies. Most respondents from eco-resorts were aware of the The government banned plastics. We relevant government policies around SUP use, although one tried to provide products in paper bags. cleaner interviewed had never heard of them. Respondents However, how could we put 10 kg of rice in a paper bag? The bags were not from eco-resorts and eco-friendly shops also acknowledged that appropriate for holding such heavy government policies are important to effectively reduce SUP weights. Then we had to buy an extra bag use, but this requires proper and timely implementation. One for 100 takas to bring the heavy products. owner of an eco-friendly shop noted that past initiatives by the The government did it for good, but it was government to reduce SUP use did not succeed, because they not successful, because the government needed to produce an alternative to did not adequately take into account the practical challenges plastic bags before banning plastic bags. that businesses face in implementing them. However, not every (IDI, Manager, Positive Deviant) employee is aware of existing policies. All customers interviewed had some level of awareness When I was in class eight, plastic bags were banned by our government. about the policies the government has in put place to reduce Shopkeepers had to give paper bags to SUP usage. There was consensus among customers that stringent customers then, as traffic police fined implementation of the government ban on SUPs could effectively them if they provide black polythene bags. (IDI, Customer, Cox Sadar) lower plastic usage. Provided that adequate alternatives are The bigger issue is whether people are available at reasonable prices, all of the respondents expressed aware or not. In my mind, everything is willingness to switch to these alternatives. They warned, however, not done by simply passing an Act at the that enacting a law without addressing the challenges in finding legislative body. Since 2001, laws have been made in Bangladesh to reduce alternatives, will inevitably result in failure. the use of plastic products, but their usage has not been reduced, but rather increased. See, it has to be replaced by something else. If there is no alternative, only passing legislation will do no good. (IDI, Customer, Resturant, Cox Sadar) Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 24 Lack of proper implementation of waste management Polythene bags were banned in 2000, policies was also noted by supervisors and cleaners of the but it was only for a limited time. Pourasabha. People started using them again. Even penalties in monetary terms, by magistrates or the police, couldn’t stop this. (FGD, Supervisor, Cox Pourasabha) > Enablers for positive deviants When it comes to enabling factors for positive deviants, the availability of suitable alternatives seems to be the most important driver, followed by initiatives by the government and local municipality and awareness campaigns. Figure 9 shows the frequency of the mention of various enabling factors by respondents from businesses. Figure 9 Enabling Factors for Businesses for Sustainable Practices and Products Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 25 If a business wishes to operate in an eco-friendly way and try to use less or no plastics, the major difficulty faced is the unavailability of a sufficient amount of alternative products, and another concern is the high price of those products. Simultaneously, financial and policy support from the government can be good enablers for positive deviants. In addition, campaigns and announcements on social platforms can also be effective enablers. When people of high social standing in leadership participate in campaigns or on social platforms, people tend to ponder their messages. According to some of the managers, the dissemination of messages mostly occurs through loudspeakers and microphones, which is effective to reach people at central and surrounding locations. According to eco-resorts, they provide tutorials and learning activities for the dissemination of knowledge and to raise awareness. One of the managers from a positive deviant related that previous jobs had made him take training on environmental issues, which was a great source of information. According to two food vendors, the government has Cox’s Bazar Municipality can provide alternative bags [instead of polythene not been able to provide a cost-effective substitute for bags] to shopkeepers in those markets plastics, which has demotivated users from putting an that are under its authority. Moreover, end to the use of plastics. incentives and subsidies can be provided to them to encourage the use of alternative bags, which can reduce the use of single-use plastics. (IDI, Customer, Food Vendor, Beach Side) In the two FGDs with supervisors and cleaners in the The government should first take the Pourashava, the participants said that they expected initiative to ban polythene manufacturing the government to take the initiative to ban the industry factories, before implementing the law producing polyethene bags, along with banning the use to ban the use of polythene bags. We can of polythene bags or other SUP products. get available SUPs at the market, like one-time cups, Coca-Cola bottles made of plastic. We should make biodegradable alternatives available, like selling soft drinks in glass bottles. Options should be available and, if the government acts and shuts down [manufacturers of SUPs], the companies will create alternatives in the interest of the people. (FGD, Supervisor, Cox Pourashava) Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 26 Overall, social media, TV commercials, and banners are mostly used by the government. A few respondents also talked about the study curriculum that teaches about the effects of SUP usage. Box 3 Summary of Opportunity Barriers > Lack of proper plastic waste collection and disposal services and infrastructure from the authorities is a major barrier, as no formal processes and guidelines exist on how to dispose of SUP products. Respondents from the city corporation also admit to the inadequacy of the infrastructure (e.g., bins) and services provided by the authorities. > Individually, shops do provide their own waste disposal bins, but most do not segregate SUPs from other waste. > Even eco-resorts cannot fully avoid using plastics. They use polythene to transport and cover waste during disposal, which involves burying and burning SUPs that end up in their business. > Limited environmental cues exist to urge people to engage in sustainable plastic use and waste management practices. They are limited to “No” signs and billboards that encourage reducing SUP use and provide clear instructions on what to do. > The social norm in coastal areas is to use SUPs, and businesses feel no pressure from their customers to switch to alternatives. Eco-friendly businesses, however, do report that customers express satisfaction in the ‘different’ experience they have at these places, and the experience of working in such businesses also encourages employees to prefer sustainable products. > While many businesses are aware of government policies around reducing SUP use, awareness is not universal (e.g., staff at lower levels may have a lower level of awareness). > Businesses, customers, and municipal staff have observed a lack of enforcement of government policies regarding SUPs, yet there is a general consensus supporting the implementation of such regulations. For successful policy adoption, the provision of accessible and affordable alternatives to SUPs is crucial. > All respondents said that they think that government policy is the most effective tool for behavior change around SUP use. However, there was also consensus that, in order to succeed, government implementation of green policies needs to be accompanied by the provision of viable alternatives to allow businesses and consumers to access the products they need and remove the barriers to transition. Many stakeholders attribute the responsibility of finding such alternatives to the government, revealing the idea of an external locus of control over the shift to sustainable behavior. Businesses also said that the government needs to ban the production of SUPs, not just their use. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 27 Automatic Motivation > Habit Habits play a big role in waste management behaviors. In reality, people wait for alternatives; when The convenience of plastics and their availability in restaurants, they don’t have any alternatives, people prefer to spend their days in what they are used to. hotels, and shops make it easy to turn plastic use into a habit. How much do we think about the environment People are used to consuming plastic products and the hassle or impact of single-use plastics in our personal of looking for an eco-friendly alternative hinders the probability life? We don’t think about it, we have a lack of doing so on a daily basis. Unless access to alternatives of foresight. Alternatives to SUPs are still becomes easier, changing habits will be difficult. not available in the market, if there was an alternative in the market, we would use that alternative. (IDI, Customer, Cox Sadar) Reflective Motivation > Environmental concern All of the managers of hotels who responded answered that they were concerned about the environment. One Plastic that is used once is better not to be used twice. Because it has chemicals that are of them mentioned that plastics contain chemicals that are harmful. If it can, it should be used for other harmful to the atmosphere. However, this person believed that purposes, like there are some entrepreneurs the danger was a consequence of reusing and not the plastic who are making plastic rope or nylon. (IDI, itself. Manager, Large Hotel, Cox Sadar) We prefer serving water in glass bottles, even All of the four managers of positive deviants shared that if it costs 5 takas more. Our managing director their main objective is not profit making, rather they are sir used to say that we should not destroy careful about not negatively affecting the environment at nature for 5 takas only. We should conserve any cost. our nature, because if nature survives, we will generate revenue. (IDI, Manager, Positive Deviant, Ukhiya) Finally, customers also seem concerned about the You may know that Cox’s Bazar is one of the seven environmental consequences of plastic usage. Specifically, wonders of the world, it is one of the tourist spots 22 out of 30 customers shared their knowledge about the in our country. The climate of this area depends environmental impacts of plastic use and their positive attitude entirely on biodiversity. Consequently, I do not support the practice of using SUPs, because it towards stopping its use. directly harms nature. (IDI, Customer, Cox Sadar) Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 28 > Beliefs about environmental impacts of SUP In general, the people interviewed believed that plastics We use plastics because they are have a dangerous impact on the environment and convenient; however, we throw them mentioned rivers, nature, and clogged drains as the around, which harms the environment primary affected elements. destroying the navigability of rivers, which hampers our lives. (IDI, Customer, Fast Food Shop) During the FGDs, all of the supervisors and cleaners of SUPs accumulate in every drain. Due to the Pourasabha agreed on the harmful impact of plastic this, drains are getting blocked. If we products on nature. They also shared their dismay about the clean it today, tomorrow we will find that apparent lack of concern among the general public about the the water has come and got stuck there. This is undesirable. (FGD, Supervisor, Cox environmental hazards created by SUPs. Pourashava) > Business related motivations Positive deviant shops and eco-friendly resorts shared We are not using plastic to reduce the their motivation to use alternatives to plastics. They cost. The cost of using bamboo is more. If said that they believe that using alternatives attracts guests we use plastic, then the cost would have and increases the number of customers. Their motivation been less. I think those who want to cut comes from demand from a particular customer base, who costs won’t use alternatives. Rather, it [an eco-resort] attracts the customers who are are concerned about the environment and try not to harm it. concerned about environmental pollution. In addition, these customers are willing to pay slightly more Consequently, if they use wooden ones, than usual, and that helps these companies financially. The then the guests will not decrease; they will managers of eco-resorts highlighted their pro-environmental increase. (IDI, Staff, Eco-Resort) behavior and dedication to sustaining the environment at any cost. However, most staff members of hotels were skeptical about alternatives to SUPs and shared negative thoughts about introducing alternatives. Ten (10) out of 12 staff members said that they were worried about the expense of alternatives and parcel-friendly cutleries, although some said that they are willing to pay more for sustainable options. They all said that they believe that the alternatives are biodegradable by nature. Behavioral Study in Cox’s Bazar ES 1 2 3 4 5 29 Box 4 Summary of Motivational Barriers > Environmental concern is the main motivation behind wanting to switch to SUP alternatives, although this concern is not sufficient to motivate people to actually do so. According to the different respondents, plastics are not biodegradable, they accumulate and clog up rivers and drains, and contain harmful chemicals. > Other motivators include local pride (preservation of the beauty and biodiversity of Cox’s Bazar) and even creating a unique business that can attract more customers. Eco-friendly businesses attract clientele who are environmentally conscious and willing to pay more for alternative products. > While the direct health impacts of plastics and microplastics were not frequently mentioned, a few respondents expressed concern about environmental pollution affecting their health. > While respondents are generally open to switching to SUP alternatives and would do so, if possible, cost is a significant concern. This includes not only the cost of the alternative product, but also cost of additional cleaning staff for reusable items. Businesses (other than eco-friendly ones) also fear that not offering SUPs could affect their business, as they believe that customers prefer them. As long as plastic products are cheaper than alternatives, it is not financially viable or convenient to stop using them. > When people talk about alternatives to plastics, they do not think only about products that can be used more than once, but rather SUP equivalents that are produced with natural, biodegradable materials. > Customers reported using SUP equivalents out of habit, as they are readily available, while alternatives are not. Without easy access, changing habits will be difficult. __ ____ 2.4.4_ Recommendations by Stakeholders According to food vendors and managers of hotels, the I think area-wise meetings should be government took a few initiatives years ago (maybe from arranged. Have a meeting and say that you will do this. And tell people “don’t 1996 to 2001) in relation to the ban on plastics, like placing use this, use that, otherwise, you will be advertisements in newspapers and on television and fined.” Or there are trade associations in encouraging people to use bags made of jute, but they failed Ukhiya [Upazilla, Cox’s Bazar] that they to implement the ban. They think that the government should can call and decide from today we will not use polythene. (IDI, Manager (1), provide awareness-raising advertisements on TV or in the print Medium Shop) media by highlighting the harmful side of plastics and informing Facebook is used by most people. And if people about alternatives. Moreover, some food vendors think that, they [awareness raising messages] are nowadays, many people use Facebook; hence, if the government on Facebook, then everyone can see. provides messages about the plastic ban through Facebook, And it’s good to do it. (IDI, Manager (1), Food Vendor, Beach Side) everyone will be aware of it. According to some small shopkeepers in the market, area-wise meetings can be arranged by the owners’ co-operative committees, at which shopkeepers, managers, and owners could be taught about the plastic ban and penalties for using plastics. Moreover, trade associations in their area could take initiatives like gathering in a meeting and deciding not to use polythene. According to some customers, billboards, screens, or banners should be placed at certain points on the beach, containing messages pointing out the negative impacts of plastic usage, so that tourists can read those messages at least once, which would cause behavioral change. Moreover, some other customers shared that regular announcements from the Upazila Parishad over loudspeaker about the prohibition on plastic use might serve as a reminder that if people do not comply, they will be fined. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 30 Behavioral Study in Dhaka ES 1 2 3 4 5 31 Chapter 3 Behavioral Study in Dhaka _ ____ 3.1 Background The Dhaka study was conducted as a knowledge and practices survey. It focused on identifying structural challenges to policy outcomes from informational, economic, and regulatory standpoints. The research aimed to investigate how plastics are used in this specific geographical context by identifying the common types of plastic products used and their sources. Additionally, the study delved into the prevailing disposal practices, including waste management systems and informal dumping, and how these practices contribute to plastic pollution in the surrounding water bodies. The findings of this research offer valuable insights into the magnitude of plastic pollution in relation to plastic usage and disposal practices by the local community living near rivers and canals around Dhaka city. The data collection for this study was conducted between September and November 2022. _ ____ 3.2 Methodology __ ____ 3.2.1_ Study Area The study examined the patterns of plastic consumption and the methods employed for plastic disposal in Dhaka. It focused on residential, commercial, and industrial areas in the proximity of rivers and canals within the Dhaka city area. __ ____ 3.2.2_ Study Approach The methodology included observation and data collection through a questionnaire survey and formal and informal face-to-face interviews. A semi-structured questionnaire consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions was used for the interviews. In the survey, people were asked about the kind of plastic products they used the most; their main reason for using plastic products, rather than alternatives; and how they dispose of their plastic waste. They were also asked if they knew about microplastic pollution and its impacts on human health and the environment. After the data was collected, it was analyzed using statistical methods to derive meaningful insights. To correct any personal biases of the respondents that would affect the analysis, visual observations were also made during the field surveys. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 32 Figure 10 Study Area Map in Dhaka Notes: Information was collected during the workshops shown on the map. Source: World Bank Behavioral Study in Dhaka ES 1 2 3 4 5 33 __ ____ 3.2.3_ Sample Group A total of 500 people were interviewed for the study, equally distributed in the three area clusters: 34% were from residential areas and another third 33% each were from the commercial and industrial areas. The majority of respondents, 21.8%, had been living in the area for 6 to 10 years, 19% for 10 to 20 years, and 16% from 20 to 40 years. The largest number of respondents were from the age group 25–30 years of age (17%), followed by 30–40 years of age (13%), and 40–45 years of age (12%). Less than 10% were under 20 or over 55 years of age. In terms of education, the majority of respondents interviewed (24.6%) were educated up to higher secondary certificate level, 23.2% were tertiary level graduates, and 17.2% were educated up to the secondary school certificate (SSC) level. Less than 10% were uneducated. Regarding occupation, the largest percentage of respondents (33%) were business owners, 20.2% held office jobs, 15% were students, 5% were homemakers, 4.2% were drivers, 0.8% were teachers, and 21.6% held other positions (e.g., day laborer, cook, technician, retired, police, security guard, etc.). _ ____ 3.3 Findings __ ____ 3.3.1_ Plastic Use Most Used Plastic Products The most used plastic products in the Dhaka study area were plastic bags (41%), followed by plastic bottles (23%), and plastic buckets (21%). Other plastic products included plastic shoes, one-time usable plastic cups, masks, personal protective equipment (PPE), brushes, chairs, pens, jugs, and drums (see Figure 11). Figure 11 Categories of Plastic Products Used Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 34 Reasons for Using Plastic Products A third (33.92%) of respondents said that they used plastic products because they are cheap 26% said because they are easily accessible, 19.7% because there are no alternatives, 16.7% because they are light weight, and 3.06% because they are durable (see Appendix 2, Figure A.1). A total of 93% of respondents were of the opinion that the use of plastic products needs to be stopped, compared to 7% who think that there is no need to stop the use of plastic products (see Appendix 2, Figure A.11). Changes in Usage Patterns The vast majority of respondents (81.36%) reported an increase in plastic product use, whereas 15.03% reported no change in plastic product use (see Appendix 2, Figure A.8). Over a third (38%) of respondents who reported an increase in use said that this was because plastic products are cheap. The second most common reason was daily necessity, with 23% of respondents citing this reason. The least common reason was that they are more convenient to use and their use has become a habit. Lack of alternative products, availability, and durability were also cited as causes of the increase in plastic product use (see Appendix 2, Figure A.9). Environmental concern was cited by 41.46% of respondents as the reason for reducing their use of plastic products. The second most common reason was use of an alternative product, with 24.39% of respondents reporting this reason. Health concerns were also a significant factor, cited by 21.95% of respondents as a reason. The least common reason was that plastic is not available in the nearby shops, with 7.32% of respondents citing this reason (see Appendix 2, Figure A.10). __ ____ 3.3.2_ Management of Plastic Waste Disposal Practices The most common disposal practice is discarding the plastic waste in open places (32.74% respondents). In addition, 30.82% of respondents said that they disposed of plastic waste through the city corporation system or gave it to waste collectors. Others reported disposing of plastic waste in various ways: 15.51% used city-designated areas, 8.2% resorted to burning, 6.5% combined burning with burial, and 3.4% discarded plastic waste in nearby water bodies (see Figure 12). Figure 12 Plastic Waste Disposal Practices Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Behavioral Study in Dhaka ES 1 2 3 4 5 35 Areas Most Polluted by Plastic Waste The public areas most polluted by plastic waste are the waste disposal areas designated by the pourashava or city corporations (20% of the respondents). Other polluted areas are bazars (19% of respondents), residential areas (14%), roadsides (14%), park areas (12%), and the drainage system (7%) (see Appendix 2, Figure A.2). __ ____ 3.3.3_ Knowledge about Impacts of Plastic Waste Knowledge about Impacts The majority of respondents were of the opinion that plastic pollution has an impact on health and nature, and that plastic waste clogs drains. Eighty percent (80%) of respondents said that they knew about the impacts of plastic waste on human health (see Appendix 2, Figure A.4). Other impacts of plastic pollution cited were that it can result in the death of animals, causes odor, is inflammable, and gets stuck in engine boat propellers (see Appendix 2, Figure A.3). As can be seen in Figure 13, 85% of respondents knew about the impact of plastic waste on the environment. Figure 13 Knowledge About Plastic Waste Impact on the Environment Source: World Bank field survey, 2022 Sources of Knowledge A total of 61% of respondents cited TV, radio, and/or newspapers as the main sources of knowledge about the impacts of plastic waste on the environment. A further 13% of respondents cited schools as a source of knowledge. Other sources included professionals, their own experience, the Internet, and social sources (see Appendix 2, Figure A.7). Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 36 __ ____ 3.3.4_ Perceived Responsibility for Plastic Waste Management and Alternatives Entities Responsible for Controlling Plastic Pollution Over a third (37.18%) of respondents said that they thought that the pourashava or city administration is responsible for controlling plastic pollution and 30.33% were of the opinion that the people themselves are responsible for controlling plastic pollution. Other responsible entities cited were environmental organizations (17.77% respondents) and NGOs (9.26% respondents). People’s Knowledge of Government Regulations Over half (59.63%) of respondents had knowledge of government regulations, such as the ban on single use polythene bags in 2002 and the Action Plan 2021 prepared by World Bank, but 40.37% of respondents did not know about government regulations regarding plastic pollution (see Appendix 2, Figure A.12). People’s Perceptions Regarding Alternatives Over a third (38.48%) of respondents thought that jute products are the best alternative to plastic products, and 32.83% said that paper products are a good alternative. A few people said that products made from sugarcane sprouts may be an alternative. These alternative products were prevalent in Bangladesh before the widespread production of plastic products (see Appendix 2, Figure A.13). Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 37 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 38 Chapter 4 Recommendations The results presented in this report reveal the need to call for an integrated solution that considers the complexity and diversity of stakeholders and the different behaviors that contribute to plastic pollution in Cox’s Bazar and Dhaka. Solutions should be customized to the needs of, and barriers faced by, each stakeholder and targeted at every level in the waste management chain. The current waste management situation in Bangladesh requires structural and legislative changes to transition to a plastic-free environment—and these changes need to be accompanied by an integrated outreach campaign to involve all actors participating in the system. However, integrated does not mean homogeneous. Each stakeholder should be targeted differently to increase the impact of such campaign. For example, cleaners are key actors in the system, as they are the ones who daily sort and dispose of waste. Specialized training for cleaning staff ensures that the final steps of waste management are executed correctly. Meanwhile, managers and owners make crucial decisions regarding purchases and the handling of SUPs. Therefore, it is essential to deliver motivational messages that enhance their commitment to sustainability and equip them with the knowledge required for proper waste management. One of the important findings of the study has to do with the perceived locus of control of the different stakeholders. For instance, in Cox’s Bazar business managers and employees, as well as shoppers, consider the government to be the sole entity responsible for enforcing sustainable behavior change and providing alternatives to SUPs. These stakeholders also consider customers’ lack of willingness to change as one of the major barriers to modifying the plastic products they offer. Communication campaigns should highlight the need for a concerted effort by all actors in society to fight plastic pollution. Incorporating messages related to a shared identity and highlighting feelings of reciprocity can elicit positive emotions that motivate people to change their behavior. Customers also need to be targeted with a specific call to action. Billboards, signs, and radio jingles in high transit areas such as beaches and market places can reach them at the exact moment when they make the decision to consume and dispose of plastic products. To tackle people’s lack of specific knowledge about SUP use and the psychological distance between their immediate worries and the consequences of SUP use, the government should prepare communication campaigns that focus on how SUPs can negatively impact immediate individual health and comfort (i.e., odors, clogging, floods). However, beyond beliefs and attitudes, the findings reveal a pervasive opinion that there are no equally convenient alternatives to plastics to facilitate the reduction of SUP use. The government should consider extended producer responsibility to promote the creation of alternatives that hotels, restaurants, and shops could offer to their customers. For example, Unilever,6 Nutri Asia,7 and Coca-Cola8 are already piloting refillable stations and package-less delivery in Asia. 6 https://www.unilever.com.ph/news/press-releases/2019/the-all-things-hair-refillery-station/ 7 https://news.abs-cbn.com/advertorial/life/11/09/20/bring-your-own-bote-and-get-refills-for-your-pantry-essentials 8 https://www.coca-colacompany.com/content/dam/journey/us/en/reports/coca-cola-world-without-waste-report-2019.pdf Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 39 The following tables give specific recommendations for businesses and shops, as well as customers, with relevant recommendations on how to address these challenges. _ ____ 4.1 Capability Barriers Table 4 Recommendations Addressing Capability Barriers Barrier Targeted Recommendation Stakeholder Cox’s Bazar Lack of clarity on SUPs: Businesses, Provide clear signage for customers in high tourist Knowledge and understanding customers, transit areas (shops, markets, beaches) about of SUPs varies among different municipality common SUP products, ideally supplemented by stakeholders. Business owners employees separate bins for disposal. and managers are generally Provide a list of SUPs with alternatives to businesses, aware of what they are, but their customized for different types of businesses to reflect staff (including cleaning staff), frequently used products. customers, and municipality employees often lack clear Provide training and communication materials to understanding. The municipality municipal staff to help them identify SUP products is neither seen as a source of for disposal and enforcement purposes. information, nor is an actual Conduct awareness-raising activities targeting source of information. customers and priming them to consider compostable materials as a better option (e.g., designated ‘waste-free zones’). Carry out capacity building for businesses including business assessments (e.g., for restaurants and hotels) to support the transition to sustainable materials in a way that does not impact on their revenue. Lack of awareness of proper Businesses, In the absence of formal waste management waste management practices: customers, systems, it is important to highlight alternative Dumping and burning are residents practices (reuse or recycle through informal entities) two ways in which businesses and encourage the reduction of SUP use. Ideally, this dispose of plastic waste. For should also be complemented by services provided businesses, the decision to burn by the municipality that businesses can sign up for. comes from the misguided belief Conduct an information campaign on how that burning plastics reduces to properly dispose of SUP waste and the their harmful impact. negative consequence of burning plastics (both environmental and health) targeting businesses. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 40 Cox’s Bazar Lack of awareness about the Businesses, Communicate the negative consequences of SUP consequences of the use of customers use to various stakeholders. How messages are plastic for the environment framed can make a difference.9, 10 For example, for and health: Business staff and businesses, framing the consequences in terms customers are aware of the of how it affects their businesses (such as trash in negative environmental impact canals can create stagnant water and cause odor) of SUPs, but are less aware can be more impactful than simply stating the of how they can affect them consequences. personally, which can create To increase awareness and prompt action among moral hazard. Businesses also customers, design campaigns that increase the tend to believe that customers salience of behaviors by combining timing and social are unaware and unconcerned goals (for example of ‘Plastic-free-July’11). This can about the harmful effects of subsequently signal to businesses that customers SUPs (based on their actions), are willing to adopt more sustainable behaviors. An although customers report assessment of the existing awareness initiatives and otherwise. their impacts is required to draw lessons learned and best practices from past experiences in the context prior to launching a communication campaign. Disconnect between personal Businesses, Providing accountability can draw people to behavior and negative customers, understand their role in a specific issue. Use signs consequences of SUPs: tourists next to bins showing the longevity of different Business owners and managers plastics in nature and provide alternative options are not always conscious of how so that tourists and locals can comprehend the their SUP use is contributing to consequences of their behaviors. plastic pollution. For customers, Accountability among customers can be triggered how a product is packaged is by providing information on how businesses and the not a consideration (beyond government count on them to separate waste and convenience and cleanliness) reduce plastic use. when using or purchasing products. Reliance on government for Businesses Share experiences of eco-friendly businesses changes: Most businesses put to demonstrate how businesses can make the the onus on the government to transition to SUP alternatives, and do so profitably. find suitable, affordable SUP alternatives to reduce their SUP use, revealing the idea of an external locus of control to shift to sustainable behavior. Limited decision-making Businesses Communication campaigns need to target personnel power: Local staff employed at all levels, including off-site management staff, to in larger businesses may have ensure motivation and commitment at the upper limited decision-making power management level and to ensure that the information around use of SUP products. reaches those who have the capacity to act. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/behavioural-public-policy/article/nonmonetary-intervention-to-discourage-consumption-of-singleuse-plastic-ba 9 gs/233C1FFC59F875B0395EE6F008A8B380 10 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921800922001227?casa_token=cItwXTW9jE4AAAAA:8zDdavqJU6cmN8jhxJqUJLB-pCAKluCrRg_0ud8y8 ZLttUkpqX9NL9lrBpntjEKxhbmN3QN2bGUm 11 Lea Marie Heidbreder, Martin Lange & Gerhard Reese (2021): #PlasticFreeJuly – Analyzing a Worldwide Campaign to Reduce Single-use Plastic Consumption with Twitter, Environmental Communication, 15(7), 937–953. Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 41 Dhaka Lack of knowledge about Businesses, Support innovation and alternatives by providing alternatives to plastic products: customers, incentives and funding for research and There is a perceived absence recycling development of sustainable alternatives to plastic or insufficient availability of companies products. affordable and convenient Encourage the adoption of eco-friendly materials, alternatives to plastic products in reuse and refill models, and packaging solutions that the market. Consumers continue have minimal environmental impact. to use plastics, because they do not have accessible or viable Use digital media, social media, and print campaigns substitutes that meet their needs. to highlight the benefits and accessibility of these alternatives. Knowledge gap about impact Customers, Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the of plastics on environment residents population about the harmful effects of microplastics and health: A significant portion on the environment and human health. of the population have limited Use a mix of traditional and digital media, education understanding of the negative programs in schools, and community outreach consequences of the use of initiatives to ensure widespread understanding and plastics on the environment and disseminate information. health, which affects their ability to make informed decisions regarding plastic use and disposal. Knowledge gap on Residents, Enhance regulatory awareness campaigns: Design government regulations: Forty government and implement targeted awareness campaign to percent (40%) of respondents better inform the public about existing government were not aware of government regulations on plastic use and disposal. regulations on plastics, which Leverage social media, local radio, and community can lead to non-compliance and meetings for effective dissemination. hinder the effectiveness of these regulations in reducing plastic pollution. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 42 _ ____ 4.2 Opportunity Barriers Table 5 Recommendations Addressing Opportunity Barriers Barrier Targeted Recommendation Stakeholder Cox’s Bazar Lack of infrastructure Businesses, Access to convenient waste collection infrastructure and for waste storage and informal services can be a strong determinant of behavior.12 Increasing disposal: There is no formal collectors, collection frequency and placing bins in convenient locations system for collecting plastic recycling can reduce the difficulty of disposing of waste properly. waste in Cox’s Bazar. Lack companies Hotels and shops should include different bins in rooms of proper plastic waste and common spaces to encourage customers to separate at collection, disposal services, source. and infrastructure is a major barrier to proper waste If government capacity is limited, formalize the involvement disposal, for both businesses of informal collectors in the collection and recycling system. and customers. Businesses For example, the city of Pune, India, worked with informal also provide no infrastructure workers to improve the city’s waste management system and to customers for segregating the working conditions of waste pickers. This, along with an waste. extensive outreach campaign, allowed for a 50% increase in segregation at source.13 Check the feasibility of businesses coordinating waste separation efforts and connecting with larger recycling companies (for example, by formalizing plastic bottle sales). Create area-wise waste banks where non-organic waste can be deposited by ‘account holders,’ which can be local businesses, shops, or vendors. Monetary value is deposited into their account based on the weight of deposited waste.14 Low reliability of waste Government, The city corporation should create and follow specific waste collection services: Waste businesses collection schedules, informing businesses about routes and collection services from the timetables. municipality can be unreliable. Introduce waste collection services, even at additional Instead of waiting for proper cost, that businesses can sign up for to reduce the hassle of channels, businesses end up dumping and burning. dumping or burning plastic waste themselves (present bias). Limited environmental Residents, Make bins highly visible and provide clear signage to cues: There are limited to no tourists encourage tourists to dispose of their litter properly. cues or signage encouraging Use environmental cues, such as reducing the size of general tourists and locals to adopt bins and increasing the size of recycling bins, to promote sustainable consumption and recycling behavior. waste disposal practices. https://journal-bpa.org/index.php/jbpa/article/view/202 12 https://kkpkp-pune.org/ 13 https://blogs.worldbank.org/eastasiapacific/waste-not-want-not-waste-banks-indonesia 14 Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 43 Cox’s Bazar Lack of alternatives: Businesses Create a program to connect businesses and alternative SUP Businesses do not see providers to facilitate the understanding of how to transition. any alternative to the SUP For small businesses, area-wise meetings can be arranged products that they are using in by owners’ cooperatives to share a list of SUPs and their their business. alternatives. Use positive deviants as role models to promote behavior change. Create events or programs to connect them. Convenience of SUP Customers People often stick to default options, because they require products: Plastic products are less effort and decision-making. Changing the default from considered more convenient SUPs to non-SUPs may result in higher uptake without extra due to their affordability, effort. portability, and relative For things to reach our consciousness, they need to attract hygenicness. SUP alternatives our attention. The salient features of SUP alternatives that are also not always readily attract the attention of consumers should be highlighted.15 available. Provide incentives (discounts) to choose reusable products. Provide drop-off points for reusable cups and bowls near the beach. Develop a focused campaign on the benefits of reusing and highlight the personal responsibility for sustainable waste generation and disposal (which can make SUPs seem less convenient). Lack of role models to share Businesses Create platforms to connect positive deviants to regular knowledge and experiences: businesses. Use success stories in campaigns to show the There is a lack of examples of benefits of sustainable practices. success that show the benefits of being eco-friendly and how it can be achieved. Social norms: The social Businesses, People are drawn to show their best image to others to norm in coastal areas is to use customers, maintain their self-interest and social status. When an SUPs, and businesses feel no tourists organization is ranked high compared to its peers, behaviors pressure from their customers adjust to maintain this social status.16 The government can to switch to alternatives. introduce a green initiative that fosters competition among Customers, similarly, feel no local businesses and rank participants relative to their peers pressure to stop using SUPs. based on their performance in fulfilling activities that reduce Observing others using SUPs SUP pollution.17 Social media can be leveraged for this to and littering can create a generate greater interest and recognition. ‘bandwagon’ effect that makes Relatedly, feedback can help organizations track their it seem okay to engage in progress toward a goal.18 Providing feedback to businesses these practices. about their SUP waste volume can provide a point of comparison and motivate sustained waste management practices. Highlighting positive deviants as ‘local champions’ can create aspirations among other businesses to follow their example. Emphasize the importance of keeping the environment clean and free of litter in signage around tourist areas. Messages should focus on the positive behavior of not littering and create a sense of social pressure to conform to the desired norm. 15 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921800916313039 16 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13549839.2011.586026 17 https://cleangreen.gov.pk/eng 18 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1207/s15324834basp2101_3 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 44 Cox’s Bazar Limited expectation of Businesses, The effectiveness of the early enforcement of the SUP ban government enforcement government, can determine how seriously people take it. If enforcement is of sustainable policies: residents lax at the beginning, it may lull people into non-compliance, Past experiences and lax as they will not expect any consequences based on past law enforcement by the experience. The government should implement a gradual, authorities has resulted in but consistent, ban or reduction in SUP use to make the businesses and individuals transition feasible and the policy or legislation actionable. having limited expectations Clear communication of the rules and limits of the ban is about the government’s ability essential to guarantee compliance by the population. to enforce and enact change It is important to ensure that stakeholders at all levels are (availability bias). aware of the policies and laws to address any collective action challenges that may arise. Tourists, for example, may not be aware of local laws and it is the authority’s responsibility to inform them when they arrive. Dhaka Inadequate waste disposal Government, Strengthen waste management by improving waste methods: Most waste is being collectors management systems in Dhaka city to prevent plastic discarded in open places and recycling pollution. or through less effective companies, Enhance collection, sorting, and recycling facilities to municipal means. residents reduce the amount of plastic waste entering rivers and canals. Encourage the use of biodegradable alternatives and promote responsible disposal practices. Initiate sustainable approaches to manage canals and rivers. Lack of waste management Government, Invest in the establishment of comprehensive recycling infrastructure: There is a recycling infrastructure that can handle different types of plastics lack of proper disposal sites companies effectively. and infrastructure for waste Promote the use of recycled plastic materials to reduce the management. demand for virgin plastics and mitigate the accumulation of microplastics. Poor disposal site Government, Provide land for recycling facilities at landfill sites, and management: There is a recycling provide free delivery of waste. lack of comprehensive waste companies, Integrate the informal sector and take a community-based management infrastructure informal approach to managing plastic waste with general waste. that could provide better collectors opportunities for recycling and responsible disposal. Convenience of plastic Businesses, Empower individuals to take an active role in reducing products: Plastic products are customers, reliance on plastics by encouraging reusable alternatives and favored for their affordability, residents making them more accessible (3Rs). accessibility, lightweight Engage in word-of-mouth campaigns, workshops, and nature, and durability, which provide information through printed materials like flyers and presents a convenience barrier posters in community centers. that other products currently fail to match. Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 45 _ ____ 4.3 Motivational Barriers Table 6 Recommendations Addressing Motivation Barriers Targeted Barrier Recommendation Stakeholder Cox’s Bazar Expectation that customers Businesses, Businesses are not sufficiently aware of customers’ prefer SUPs: Businesses expect customers willingness to consider and adopt SUP alternatives. customers to have a strong Correct this misperception by sharing data from preference for SUP products short surveys and polls showing customer support and attribute the choice of using for eco-friendly products with businesses. SUPs to customer demand Eco-friendly hotels report high customer satisfaction. (self-serving bias). To ensure Leverage their experiences as examples to quality service and customer demonstrate how customers prefer sustainable satisfaction, they are reluctant to options (e.g., using testimonies or videos). introduce changes that may not match customers’ expectations. Make the choice between SUPs and alternatives Customers, however, report being more salient for customers in a way that signals open to using viable alternatives. their preferences to businesses. For example, ask customers during check-in or booking what type of products they prefer, or ask about their preference at restaurants when placing orders. Supplement this with information and messaging around the harm of SUP use. Reframe quality service to create associations between high quality and environmentally sustainable behaviors and practices. Misplaced environmental Businesses Environmental concern appears to be a motivation beliefs: The decision by for action. Develop a communication campaign businesses to incinerate plastic targeting businesses that focuses on the negative products is motivated by a consequences of burning (releasing microplastics misplaced belief that burning and toxins) and that disassociates burning with plastics reduces their harmful taking care of plastic pollution (by making it impact. disappear). Salient messages, that are specific and actionable, at the right place and the right time, can trigger behavior change. Provide reminders by placing posters/signs in areas where businesses burn waste. Leverage local pride to design a communication campaign around keeping Cox’s Bazar beautiful and clean by reducing the use of SUPs and preserving the environment for future. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 46 Cox’s Bazar Few personal consequences: Businesses, Make the health impacts of SUPs and their improper Both businesses and customers customers disposal salient through communication campaigns. mentioned the visible Leverage data on the growing health trends environmental consequences associated with SUP use/burning to demonstrate of plastic pollution, but few urgency and how SUP use can affect individuals. talked about its health impacts Counteract the idea that SUP alternatives are (besides carcinogens). SUPs are unhygienic by framing messages to customers that also considered more hygienic by highlight the benefits of reusing compared to plastic customers, who have concerns waste generation. about the health risks of reusable products. Leverage endorsement from credible experts (e.g. doctors and public health officials) in communication campaigns to promote the health benefits of reusable products over SUPs. Encourage businesses to clearly state their cleaning/ sanitary practices with regards to alternatives to assure customers about their hygiene and safety. Cleanliness measures also need to be enforced by the authorities, to the extent possible, through spot checks. High cost of transitioning to Businesses Highlight positive deviants as role models to alternatives: Businesses are demonstrate how businesses can shift to more open to switching to alternatives, sustainable business models. but the cost (of alternatives and Target communication campaigns to address cleaning reusable items) is a concerns around adopting SUP alternatives that are concern. Businesses also fear that most relevant for different business stakeholders. not offering SUPs can affect their Senior management may worry about financial business, as they believe that viability, restaurant servers are concerned with client customers prefer them. dissatisfaction, and cleaners with resource and infrastructure challenges. Habit: For customers, SUPs are Customers Alternatives need to be made readily available to readily and easily accessible break the habitual cycle of SUP use and make the and available, making them the choice between SUP and non-SUP products more default choice, requiring little salient for customers. Businesses can prompt consideration. reflective thinking by asking about preferences or prominently displaying non-SUP alternatives, while SUP products are kept out of sight or in less accessible locations. The experiences of eco-resorts and eco-friendly businesses suggest that customers may experience a ‘warm glow giving’ effect by engaging in environmentally sustainable practices. Making this contribution salient by acknowledging their contribution and thanking them, in advance, can also prompt reciprocity. Recommendations ES 1 2 3 4 5 47 Cox’s Bazar Lack of accountability: Businesses, Gamifying a desired action can increase uptake Tourists and local residents residents, of that behavior. Recycling can be encouraged by litter SUP products, as they tourists, SUP introducing voting bins, which are ‘polls’ where expect waste pickers to collect producers the volume of waste disposed in the bin indicates them. Businesses feel that SUP support for one option over the other (e.g. Ronaldo producers also need to be held vs Messi).19 accountable by the government, Initiative can be taken to take stock of SUPs polluting rather than placing the burden of beach areas and hold companies accountable by change only on businesses. ranking which have the most products polluting the area. For example, in the Philippines, local volunteers and NGOs conducted waste audits to understand which brands were disproportionately responsible for coastal plastic waste. They subsequently used a ‘name and demand accountability’ technique to publicize the identities of the companies responsible, which created awareness between companies and citizens, fostering the search for plastic alternatives.20 Share information with the public on the difference between clean and dirty SUP products. Eco pledges (such as the Palau Pledge21) can instill a sense of commitment and accountability among tourists. Tourists can be asked to sign a voluntary pledge upon arrival (at transit points, or hotels) committing to sustainable behaviors during their stay. Not all SUPs can be recycled. Share information with the public on the difference between clean and dirty SUP products. Dhaka Habitual use of plastics: Residents Encourage the separation of recyclables from A significant proportion of general waste. respondents (81.36%) reported Create engaging social media challenges and an increase in the use of plastic community programs to alter habits. products, indicating that habits and convenience play a large role in their continued use. https://www.hubbub.org.uk/blog/ronaldo-or-messi-when-litter-goes-viral 19 https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/ 20 Levitan-Haffar, Marcia Moana. 2022. “Can Nature Tourists Police Themselves? Comparing Eco-Pledges in the United States and Palau.” University of Colorado 21 Law Review, 93 (2022): 801. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 48 Dhaka Low perceived need for Government, Develop long-term strategies and action plans to behavior change: While 93% NGOs, address microplastic pollution comprehensively. of respondents believe that the businesses Set clear goals, timelines, and milestones to track use of plastic products needs progress and ensure sustained efforts. to be reduced or stopped, their Use impactful storytelling through digital platforms continued high use suggests that to highlight the necessity of behavioral change and this motivation is not translating the long-term benefits. into behavioral change. Diffusion of responsibility: Government, Involve various stakeholders, including industries, Perceptions about responsibility NGOs, NGOs, scientists, and local communities, in the for controlling plastic pollution businesses, decision-making process. are distributed among the residents, Encourage collaboration and partnerships to pourashava (city administration), environmental develop and implement effective solutions. the people themselves, organizations environmental organizations, Encourage stakeholders to actively participate in the NGOs, and the government, upcoming EPR program. indicating a potential diffusion Organize local meetings and collaborative platforms of responsibility and a lack of to share responsibilities and actions, using directed motivation to initiate traditional and modern communication channels for change. a broad reach. 49 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management ES 1 2 3 4 5 50 Chapter 5 Conclusions In conclusion, the findings of the studies 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. Increasing awareness is the first step, but effort also needs to go into providing adequate infrastructure and environmental cues to enable businesses and individuals to engage in the desired behavior. In addition, cooperation and information sharing needs to be facilitated to address collective action challenges and proper enforcement of the ban needs to be ensured, especially at early stages, to signal its viability. The findings also highlight that investments in waste management infrastructure are not only beneficial, but essential, for any substantive shift towards sustainable practices. The studies found that the lack, or inadequacy, of segregated waste disposal and collection facilities significantly impedes the potential for behavior change. This includes not only the physical infrastructure, but also the implementation of technology-driven solutions for monitoring and optimizing waste management practices. Concurrently, there needs to be a concerted effort to engage stakeholders in behavior change initiatives that align with a systemic transformation. Public awareness campaigns, education programs, and incentives for responsible waste disposal should be integrated into a holistic strategy. Collaborative efforts involving government bodies, the private sector, and local communities are essential to ensure sustainable and effective plastic waste management. In parallel, the government needs to work with producers to develop viable alternatives to SUP products and create the linkages between producers and businesses to ensure the supply of SUP alternatives ready to meet demand. To summarize: > Stakeholders are more aware that plastics are harmful for the environment than they are of the health consequences. Consequences for the environment are more easily visible. Respondents in both studies did not make the connection between health problems and waste disposal methods. > The adoption of alternatives comes with structural, economic, and behavioral challenges. Efforts to reduce or ban SUP use need to take into consideration how SUP alternatives compare in terms of the perceived advantages of existing SUP products. Alternatives also need to be made readily available to break the habitual cycle of SUP use and make the choice between SUP or non-SUP products more salient for customers. Awareness campaigns are critical to ensure that the benefits of the latter are clear and negative consequences of the former are also communicated in a timely and salient manner. > Customers like the convenience, relative cleanliness, and portability of SUPs and, despite awareness of their negative consequences, continue to use SUPs. As businesses are concerned with providing quality service and customer satisfaction, they are unwilling to introduce changes that may not match customers’ expectations and, for larger hotels, detract from their idea of ‘five-star service.’ Conclusions ES 1 2 3 4 5 51 > There is evidence that customers/consumers will switch to non-SUP products or SUP alternatives, if they are given a choice at a reasonable cost and if these alternate products are easily available. As the Dhaka study pointed out, many of the so-called alternatives were in use before the SUPs came into the market. > Accountability for reducing the use of SUPs and appropriate waste disposal should lie with all users and should not be the sole responsibility of the government. > It is clear from the findings of the studies that the waste management and disposal services provided by the municipal authorities are far from adequate. Unreliable and irregular waste collection services, lack of formal recycling facilities, lack of proper waste management and disposal infrastructure in public places, and slack implementation of laws and policies at the local level all contribute to plastic pollution. Businesses and customers alike do not have clear guidelines or policies on what to do with SUP products. This is a major challenge, because without clarity on what the ideal process should be, compliance cannot be expected. > In lieu of formal segregation and recycling processes and infrastructure, informal processes and actors, involving informal waste pickers and bhangari shops, have created an informal system that has become the norm. > Although respondents express support for government legislation and policies to reduce SUP use, there is limited expectations that they will be implemented and enforced. 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World Bank. https:// thedocs.worldbank.org/en/doc/42712a1018d536bb86c35018b9600c53-0310062021/original/National- Action-Plan-for-plastic-management-Dec.pdf Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 54 Appendix 1 Sampling Distribution in Cox’s Bazar Study Total Method Target Group Description Name Number Remarks Sample In-depth Hotels/motels Large Hotel Sea 2 6 In each hotel/ interview (mostly using SUP Gull, Hotel motel, staff were (IDI) in their facilities) Nishorgo interviewed at three   levels (management, Medium Hotel Prasad 2 6 restaurant staff,   Paradise, cleaning staff).   Hotel Silicon     Tourists From large hotel 2 2   (customers) From medium hotel 2 2   Hotels/motels (or Large Mermaid Eco- 1 3 In each hotel/   eco-resorts) that Resort motel, staff were   do not use or use Medium Divine Eco- 1 3 interviewed at three less than 25% SUP Resort levels (management,   in their facilities restaurant staff,   cleaning staff).   Tourists From large hotel 1 2   (customers) From medium hotel 1 2   Shops Small 3 3 1 in Ukhiya   Medium 3 3 1 in Ukhiya   Supermarkets 1 2 One management and   one sales staff   Vendors (roadside) 5 5     Shops (positive Small 2 2     deviants) Medium 2 2 1 in Ukhiya (north end)   Customers Small shops 2     Medium shops 2 1 in Ukhiya   Supermarket 2     Vendors 3     Small shops (positive deviant) 2     Medium shops (positive deviant) 2     Shopkeepers/ Restaurants 3   management Fast food shops 3   Food vendors 5  (Around beach area) Customers Restaurants 2   Fast food shops 2   Food vendors   5   BRAC/UNDP project person 1   Sub-total   77   Appendix 1 55 Total Method Target Group Description Name Number Remarks Sample Observations Restaurant 2 and photo diary Local market 2 entries22 Main street 2   (infrastructure,   public bin usage, etc.)   Beach 2   Sub-total   8   FGDs Local municipal Supervisors   14 Two groups of six to authority23 eight each Sweepers   Sub-total   14     Total   99   Management and customer behavior, use of plastics, relevant messages (poster, billboard etc.), and waste bin using behavior, etc. was observed. 22 Cleanliness section, Department of Health, Family Planning and Cleanliness, Cox’s Bazar Pourashava. 23 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 56 Appendix 2 Additional Graphs from Dhaka Study Figure A.1 Reasons for Using Plastic Products Source: World Bank Figure A.2 Areas Most Polluted by Plastic Waste Source: World Bank Appendix 2 57 Figure A.3 Potential Impacts of Plastic Pollution, According to Respondents Source: World Bank Figure A.4 Knowledge about Impacts of Plastic Waste on Human Health Don’t know 20% Know 80% Figure A.5 Diseases Occurrence in the Community Source: World Bank Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 58 Figure A.6 Disease Occurrence among Family Members of Respondents in the Last 5 years Source: World Bank Figure A.7 Sources of Knowledge about Plastic Waste Source: World Bank Appendix 2 59 Figure A.8 Perceived Changes in Plastic Product Use Source: World Bank Figure A.9 Causes of Increase in Use of Plastic Products Source: World Bank Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 60 Figure A.10 Causes of Decrease in Use of Plastic Products Source: World Bank Figure A.11 Perceived Need to Stop Plastic Use Not need to be stopped 7% Need to be stopped 93% Source: World Bank Appendix 2 61 Figure A.12 Knowledge of Government Regulations Regarding Plastic Pollution Total (%) Know 40.37 Don’t Know 59.63 Source: World Bank Figure A.13 Perceived Alternatives to Plastic Products Source: World Bank Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 62 Appendix 3 Stakeholder Analysis for Dhaka Study The following stakeholder analysis was conducted to identify stakeholders in the plastic industry, waste management sector, private sector, research organizations, and import and trade businesses. Their roles and current status were explored and strategies for enhancing their contribution to plastic waste management were recommended. Table A.1 Stakeholder Analysis for Dhaka Study Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 1 Manufacturers Plastic goods and > There are more than > Participate in the EPR packaging material 5,110 plastic goods and program and become an suppliers packaging manufacturers active member of producer in Bangladesh. responsibility organizations (PRO) under EPR. > These are responsible for producing a large > Discontinue (step-by- number of packaging step) the production of materials (mainly MLPs problematic plastic goods and SUPs) that remain and packaging items (MLPs uncollected and pollute and SUPs). the environment and > Increase the use of recycled ecosystem. resin in plastic production. > Collaborate closely with local authorities, formal and informal recycling industries, along with consumers and shops. 2. Brand owners Brand owners use > Brand owners are selling > Participate in the EPR plastic packaging their food and non- program and become an materials for their food products using active member of a PRO products. According flexible and rigid plastic under EPR. to the database of packaging materials. the Registrar of Joint > Discontinue (step-by-step) Stock of Companies the use of problematic and Firms (RJSC), there plastic packaging items are 59 fast-moving (MLPs and SUPs). consumer goods (FMCG) > Increase the use of recycled producer companies. resin in the packaging system. In Bangladesh, the FMCG industry can be > Collaborate closely with classified into three relevant city corporations, major categories: food municipalities, formal and and beverage, personal informal recycling industries, care, and household along with consumers and care industries. shopping outlets. Appendix 3 63 Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 3. Importers Importers directly > A small percentage of > Participate in the EPR import brand brand products (food, program and become an products with other non-food, medicine active member of a PRO commodities. and cosmetic items) are under EPR. imported. > Discontinue (step-by-step) the use of problematic plastic packaging items (MLPs and SUPs). > Import products that use environmentally friendly packaging materials. 4. Consumers/ Consumers are > There is a lack of > Stop littering. households consuming food and awareness among non-food products that > Participate in the consumers. segregation of waste at use plastic packaging materials. > They are responsible for source. the littering of waste. > Be aware of green products > Consumers are generally and say no to polluting not aware about the use packaging materials. of environment-friendly choices. 5. Rickshaw van Rickshaw van drivers There are 5,800 rickshaw > > Ensure and participate in collectors are responsible for the van drivers (with helpers) the segregation of waste at collection of municipal for the city corporations source. waste from households, in Dhaka. which they dispose of > Provide a timely and at the designated waste > They are collecting mixed efficient service. waste from households. disposal points, transfer > Participate in the EPR stations, or at illegal > They provide their project. dumping points. support for a monthly fee. > Local community-based organizations are carrying out the service. > Rickshaw van collectors are employed by the local communities. > They do not have any protective gear. > They do not have any registration number or recognition. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 64 Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 6. Collection A collection crew > There are 1,800 waste > Ensure and participate in crew is employed by the collection workers the segregation of waste at city corporation and working for the city source. is responsible for corporations in Dhaka. collecting waste from > Use protective gear. transfer stations. > They segregate soiled > Participate in the EPR mixed waste collected project. from households. > They extract recyclables from the waste collection points (secondary transfer station, dustbins etc.). > Most of them do not wear any protective clothing or protective gear while handling mixed waste. 7. Waste pickers Waste pickers deal > There are 200 waste > Ensure and participate in mainly with soiled pickers working the segregation of waste at waste in dustbins, microplastic sites in source. illegal waste disposal Dhaka city. points, and transfer > Use protective gear. stations. > Waste pickers mainly > Participate in the EPR collect soiled waste project. from secondary transfer stations and landfill sites. > They are not interested in collecting SUPs and MLPs, because these waste items are not economically viable for recycling. > They are exposed to disease and do not have any healthcare support. > They do not wear any protective gear while handling waste. > They do not have any official recognition from the city. Appendix 3 65 Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 8. Itinerant Itinerant buyers/ > There are more than > Ensure and participate in buyers/ feriwallas mainly deal 1,100 feriwallas working the segregation of waste at feriwallas with unsoiled recyclable in Dhaka city. source. waste (paper, plastic, glass, tin, iron etc.). > Due to security reasons, > Use protective gear. many communities do > Participate in the EPR not allow feriwallas to project. work in their community. > They are gradually being replaced by junk shop owners. > They play a vital role in buying source segregated waste of economic value. > They do not wear any protective gear while dealing with waste. > They are not socially recognized in a positive way. 9. Junk shops/ These are small shops > There are more than > Ensure and participate in vangari dokan located within the 1,070 junk shops/vangari the segregation of waste at community that deal dokan in Dhaka city. source. with both soiled and unsoiled waste and > These junk shops are > Use protective gear. located inside the city, which buy waste > Participate in the EPR mainly near the waste from informal waste project. bins, secondary transfer collectors. > Use improved equipment stations, landfill sites, and industries. to efficiently process recyclables with shredding > Apart from buying waste machines, compactors, and from shops, they also buy baling machines etc. recyclables directly from households, commercial > Improve the working and institutional environment of junk shops. buildings, and markets. > They do not have any proper equipment to compact or reduce the size of their stored recyclables, so that they can save storage space and reduce transportation cost. Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 66 Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 10. Wholesale These are large shops > Altogether there are 115 > Ensure and participate in shops/brokers specializing in specific wholesale buyers of the segregation of waste at types of items (paper, plastic waste in Dhaka source. plastic, metal, glass city. etc.). They can act > Use protective gear. as a broker to buy > They are mainly located > Participate in the EPR in the older part of Dhaka large quantities of project. city. recyclables from large > Relocate to a plastic waste generators or > They do not have any recycling park dedicated by industries with a large proper place to store the government. amount of packaging the recyclables and they waste for sale. do not have the proper equipment for shredding, compacting, or baling, etc. These workplaces are unhygienic. 11. Recycling These are mainly small, > There are almost 300 > Ensure that workers use industries medium, and large plastic recycling units in protective gear. recycling industries Dhaka, employing almost dealing with plastic > Participate in the EPR 5,400 people (World project. waste of different Bank, 2021b). grades to produce > Relocate in a plastic granules and new > Out of the 235,790 tons of industrial park dedicated plastic waste generated consumer goods. by the government. per year, Dhaka recycles 87,783 tons (World Bank, > The government to provide 2021b). fiscal and financial support including tax and VAT incentives. > Engage in green procurement by the government and encourage public-private partnerships (PPPs). 12. Bangladesh Research and training > The BUET supports > Conduct research on how University of the newly established to reduce harmful plastic Engineering Bangladesh Institute use. and of Plastic Engineering Technology > Impart training on the & Technology (BIPET) proper management of (BUET), Dhaka under the supervision plastic waste. University, of Bangladesh Plastic and research Goods, Manufacturing > Innovate alternatives to organizations and Exporters Association plastic packaging material. (BPGMEA) and provides > Promote green products technical assistance. and circular economy. Appendix 3 67 Strategies for Enhancing S.N. Stakeholder Role Current Status Plastic Waste Management 13. Bangladesh These organizations > BPGMEA is interested in > Active member of PRO. Plastic Goods, have active members participating in the EPR Manufacturing and are promoting the > Carry out capacity building project. and develop guidelines and Exporters plastic industry. Association > According to the draft for the stakeholders with Proposed EPR policy, distinct responsibilities. (BPGMEA) BPGMEA will co-ordinate Bangladesh > Participate in EPR pilot all manufacturers of project. PET Flakes plastic goods, brand Manufacturers owners, and importers & Exporters under the PRO. Association (BPFMEA) 14. International World Bank, Asian > The World Bank is > Provide technical development Development Bank, Asia supporting two baseline assistance to conduct a agencies and Infra Structure Bank, studies to prepare a Road detailed study for both banks Japan International Map and Action Plan for land-based and marine- Cooperation Agency Bangladesh. based plastic pollution (JICA), Foreign, research. Commonwealth & Development Office > Promote PPP in plastic waste treatment and recycling (FCDO), UNDP initiatives by providing long- term soft loans. 15 Education Advocacy NGOs, CBOs > We need the active > Actively participate in institutions, participation of these awareness campaigns. media and organizations in plastic films, NGOs/ > Work closely with the EPR goods and plastic waste CBOs program and PRO. related issues. Eco-Social > Include awareness-raising Development > They take part in materials in textbooks and awareness generation practical activities. Organization programs linked with (ESDO) plastics. Practical Action Water Aid Consumer Association of Bangladesh (CAAB) 16 Private waste Recycling, waste > Private providers > The government to provide related service management services, currently consider all necessary support and providers and dredging investment in the plastic assistance to initiatives treatment and recycling that reduce the burden of to be risky, unless proper plastic waste. support and incentives > Free land and free delivery are provided by the of waste as raw material government. should be promoted, considering the harmful impact of doing nothing. Conclusions ES 1 Behavioral Insights into Plastic Waste Management 2 3 4 5 68