investigate the management of single use plastic pollution and its effects to the environment in thai nguyen city case of quyet thang ward

Thai Nguyen University University of Agricultural and Forestry MUNYARADZI JOSEPH DEWA INVESTIGATES THE MANAGEMENT OF SINGLE USE PLASTIC POLLUTION AND ITS EFFECTS TO THE ENVIRONMENT IN TH

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Economic, political and educational center of the Northern Midlands and Mountains in Vietnam is located in Thai Nguyen province It is also worth noting that it additionally functions as the entry points for social and economic interactions within the Northern Midlands and Mountains and the Northern Delta of Vietnam Management household trash, especially on how to dispose the single- use of plastic is a major problem which has reached alarming levels in the city Considering the backdrop of the nation’s 25 th largest population, people’s quality of life has risen resulting in an enormous quantity of waste It is also important to note that plastic is a substance that affects the community and environment in a number of ways that are beneficial as well as detrimental Disposing of plastic waste has remained to be a critical threat to the environment especially those in main urban centers of Vietnam At rubbish sites and on city streets plastics have become a significant contributor of litter Considering the fact that they are an eyesore because they cling to trees and bushes

Disposal of plastic garbage is frequently done in a reckless way in uncontrolled waste disposal centers which eventually triggers significant well- being challenges to people and the ecosystem as a whole Poor waste management contributes in losses to the economy as well as other elements of welfare (Zurbrugg, 2002) Municipal services encounter difficulties in controlling the disposal solid waste resulting from the increased growth of cities and a rise in population Several economies in development particularly Vietnam continue to encounter massive challenges with poor disposal of waste

The struggle against environmental garbage is a worldwide problem which resulted for Vietnam not to be left out Vietnam has seen its own challenges a while back most notably with plastic trash The quantity of plastic garbage dispersed all over Thai Nguyen’s streets has been a major threat to the environment for over twenty years Plastic garbage cannot be handled in an appropriate way and the public is not being addressed of the issue Even for their household’s individuals purchase water in disposable containers whenever they wish to drink it The plastic trash from the packages that individuals toss away after consuming water find its way back into the water after being dumped in cars and buses

The Vietnamese economy and the world economy both heavily rely on plastics Considering its low cost flexibility, durability and convenient of use, the use of plastic products has increased by half since the 1950s By 2018 there were total of 359 million tons of plastic produced worldwide In 2021, plastic has been extensively utilized in Vietnam for a range of products, including agriculture, packaging, automobiles, airplanes, and electronics The equivalent of 17,5 billion or 6,7% of GDP was generated by the 8,89 million tons of rubber produced in Vietnam in 2019 and its $ 17,5 billion economic impact (Vietnam, 2018)

Rural and urban areas are the primary suppliers of food and other necessities for rapidly urbanizing areas Rural populations all across the globe are currently dealing with significant environmental issues associated with climate change, biodiversity loss and environment plastic waste The rural communities acquire less investigation as compared to metropolitan places do plastic garbage Deterioration of the environment in urban areas is mainly brought by linear economic processes (fossil fuel industry, depletion of resources, intensive farming and unrestricted pollution) In addition to the consequences of changes in climate (the potential threat posed by gender), are the root cause of global poverty, lack of progress and the decline of rural communities (A Pain;Hansen, 2019)

Rural communities natural and living environments such as coastal and island societies are negatively impacted by plastic waste thus endangering SDGs 14 (Life under the sea) and

15 Life on earth The farming and rural tourism sector are the significant economic sectors that are negatively damaged by plastic waste In order to minimize the degradation of municipal garbage and the rise in plastic imports from nearby nations, it is therefore required to build an efficient urban waste management sector, according to SDG number

Every year, millions of discarded plastic shopping bags end up as household waste environment when it is removed inappropriately Due to its durability, disposal of plastic bags as waste takes hundreds of years to decompose On the surface, reusable bags made of plastic appears to be among the most prevalent types of garbage in neighborhoods Plastic waste bags, when carried by runoff, can clog drainage systems and contribute to floods, as happened in Bangladesh in 1988 and 1998 and almost years in Manila Waste is often a serious problem in developing countries, where waste disposal facilities are underdeveloped as compared to well developed countries.

Statement of the problem

The issue with single –use plastic papers is that they are designed to be used only once by the consumers ( NEMAnews, 2007) This pattern of use appears in the container, such as many other goods end their life by rotting in landfills (NEMA, 2005) Many social, economic and environmental risks are associated with plastic waste, (UNEP,

2005) It was found that the current practice of littering by the residents of Quyet Thang area is unacceptable Single use Plastics in the Quyet Thang area are an indication of property ownership and illegal disposal of plastic garbage which is one of the environmental issues that urban areas and developing nations face Hope and Lekorwe, (1999) Manyanhaire et al., (2009)

The problem of this study is the increase of urban pollution in Vietnam due to improper waste management which is evident in Quyet Thang ward of Thai Nguyen city (Vietnam) Participate in household waste recycling This situation is more and more evident in the settlements, universities market places around Quayet thang ward, which causes various environmental problems Plastic pollution is seen alone in the Quayet thang area by its bright color and persistence in the environment

Plastic wastes pose a major environmental challenge due to their non-biodegradable nature Single-use plastics are dumped into the environment in two ways: intentional and unintentional waste Intentional spills can be ubiquitous in cities, parks, rivers, roads and open spaces (Cherrier, 2006) The most popular factor that contributes to unintentional littering is wind Due to their low weight and fragility, air transport waste from plastic bags is thrown into the environment everywhere, especially on trees, canals and ponds Even when properly placed in the block, the plastic bag is often blown and littered Not only is litter in the ocean unhealthy, it can also cause environmental hazards.

Aim

The aim of this research is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to single-use plastic consumption in Thai Nguyen City's Quyet Thang Ward, Vietnam, and to develop effective strategies to address this issue.

Objectives

The following objectives were established to guide the author while writing thesis The goal of this research is to figure out the impact of single plastic pollution control in Thai Nguyen The study will be conducted in one ward of Thai Nguyen province i To assess the community’s knowledge and understanding regarding the problems associated with plastic pollution ii To analyze the environmental consciousness of the population iii To evaluate community members thought processes regarding the origins and impact of plastics in Quyet Thang ward environments and their lives iv To assess the community willingness to make change towards their behavior on the usage of single- use plastics v To suggest various solutions in order to engage in the pollution caused by plastic waste system in Quyet Thang ward

Research Questions

i In your opinion can you briefly explain the current state of single- use plastic disposal in Quyet Thang? ii What strategies do people in the community employ to get rid of their plastic waste? iii Are the community members aware of the effects of disposing plastic waste in

Quyet Thang ward environments? iv Which factors should be put in consideration in order to understand Cairness present day actions and interactions with single-use plastic bags? v What might be done to reduce plastic pollution in Quyet Thang ward.

Limitations of the study

The most difficult problem facing the writer is to collect data for the thesis work The waste management company may refuse to provide the writer with written data because they are afraid that the writer will use the information to damage the image of the country in exchange for money in the country as They may think that people are coming for data to help them solve problems, but the end is different In addition, due to lack of money, the writer will not be able to attend many study places The primary shortcoming of this study is its inability to conduct interviews to collect data Vietnamese speakers in Vietnam do not speak English Due to the language barrier, it will be difficult to conduct interviews and interviews with the respondents, leaving a lot of information from the Quyet Thang ward area to be recorded.

Justification of the study

Single-use plastics have become one of the most popular products in the world in recent decades They have gained popularity among buyers and sellers because they are functional, light, strong, cheap and clean for transporting food and products Although they have successfully worked in some areas of the environment, single-use plastics have become a reflection of the current linear production and consumption system Although millions of bags made from plastic are being used in the Quyet Thang ward of Thai Nguyen city, they end up in the waste water soon after they are used Special consideration has been paid around the world to the environmental impact of single-use plastic waste, as it is: it is distributed freely in large quantities; designed as a disposable product; persistent in the environment causing negative effects on the environment and the eyes and waste; cannot be substituted by other means and methods; and ignored by recycling programs (NEMA information 2006)

The objective of this study was to examine the management of disposable plastics and their impact of the environment and the risk level of single-use plastic waste in Thai Nguyen City, Vietnam, with a particular focus on the Quyet Thang ward.

Design, Methodology and Methods

The study used a qualitative technique with an aspect of ethics and an exploratory case study design Primary and secondary data were used In depth interviews, observations and other primary sources of data were used The materials used for secondary data were from books, journals, and other relevant sources from the library of the Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry

1.9 Assumptions of the Study i The variable households selected was a true representation of the single use plastic waste disposal and management practices in Quyet Thang ward ii Responses from respondents in Quyet Thang ward were true, honest and transparent iii There was a nexus between the independent variables and the dependent

The chapter concludes that single-use plastic waste poses major environmental challenges in Quyet Thang ward of Thai Nguyen city, Vietnam The community's knowledge and understanding of the problems associated with plastic pollution needs to be assessed to raise awareness and propose solutions

PART II LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Chapter two is addressing the theories that are relevant to the study and the consequences of single- use plastics on the environment The literature was gathered from a variety of information sources mostly from books, articles and the internet

The pervasive presence of plastics in the natural environment has led to a global crisis, with plastics disposable having a particularly devastating effect on ecosystems and wildlife Effective management of plastic waste is urgently needed, but the situation varies widely across different countries and regions, with some non-Asian countries making progress while others lag behind, and some parts of Africa struggling with inadequate waste management infrastructure In Vietnam, efforts are underway to address the issue, but much work remains to be done to ensure the proper disposal of plastic garbage and prevent further harm to the environment

As the world's population continues to grow and urban development accelerates, municipal solid waste generation has become a major challenge, with the variety of waste composition increasing at an alarming rate (Ngueyn et al ,2011) The volume of garbage created has increased as a result of the expansion of economic growth, technological advancement, urbanization, growing living standards and increased populations The United Nations predicts that by 2025 there will be 8,000 million people living on the planet and by 2050 there will be about 9,5 million people or 50% more people than there are now In Asia and Africa, this growth will equal 97% of the total The rapid expansion of the bourgeoisie in emerging economies is poised to have a profound impact on both the political and economic landscape The annual production of municipal, industrial and hazardous garbage worldwide now exceeds 4 billion tons (Veolia, 2009)

Hassan (2002) argues that the quantity and composition garbage generated are influenced by variables including the economic and social growth of the community, the level of industrial growth and the climate Municipalities incapacity to manage the growing amount of solid trash has eventually led to rampant environmental problems in urban areas

Due to increase in population, it eventually place a significant difficulties to any formal management system The extreme environmental degradation as well as health challenges brought on by uncollected and improperly disposed waste in streets, open space and clogged urban drainage systems as well as resource contamination nearby water supplies and unregulated landfills, many Asian cities are currently experiencing

The majority of nations around the world struggle with management of garbage The difficulties include reducing waste, spreading it, changing habits, collecting, transporting, treating, reusing and disposing of it UNEP (2005), there are a number of obstacles for industries at various stages of growth Nations that are developing end up neglecting management of solid waste in an attempt increase the rate of industrialization Ngocand Schnitzer (2009) assets that population growth

The theory of diffusion and innovations and the theory of planned behavior were used for the study

2.3.1 The Theory of Diffusion of Innovations

The theory of diffusion of innovations, which Everett M Rogers created in 1962, aims to explain how novel concepts, behaviors, or objects gradually permeate a population or social system The community in Quyet Thang ward might successfully adopt more environmentally friendly substitutes for single-use plastics if this theory is applied as a framework

According to Rogers (2003), "diffusion is the process by which an innovation is communicated through certain channels over time among the members of a social system" (p 5) There are four key elements in the diffusion process - the innovation itself, communication channels, time, and the social system An innovation is "an idea, practice, or object that is perceived as new by an individual or other unit of adoption" (Rogers, 2003, p 12) Communication channels facilitate information sharing and influence about the innovation Time is involved both in the innovation-decision process of an individual and the overall rate of adoption in a system The social system provides a boundary within which diffusion occurs

There are five established adopter categories in the diffusion process - innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards (Rogers, 2003) Innovators are eager to try new ideas, even if they end up failing As Rogers (2003) states, "the innovator plays a gatekeeping role in the flow of new ideas into a system" (p 283) Early adopters are more integrated in the social system and serve as role models for others Getting these groups to adopt reusable bags, straws, food containers and cutlery instead of disposable plastic versions can set an important example for others Opinion leaders could play a key role in accelerating diffusion through their interpersonal networks in the community

Rogers (2003) identified five characteristics of an innovation that influence adoption - relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability Innovations perceived as having more of these qualities tend to be adopted faster This highlights the need to ensure reusable alternative products provide strong advantages over disposable plastics in affordability, performance and sustainability They should also align with existing cultural values and norms around waste reduction Allowing people to try the new products before fully adopting them and making their benefits readily observable facilitates uptake

2.3.2 The Theory of Planned Behavior

The theory of planned behavior, developed by Icek Ajzen in the 1980s, examines how human behaviors are guided by behavioral intentions, which are in turn influenced by attitudes toward the behavior, subjective norms, and perceived control (Ajzen, 1991) This theory provides a model for understanding the factors that motivate individuals to use disposable plastics and how their behaviors could be shifted towards more sustainable alternatives instead

According to Ajzen (1991), "a central factor in the theory of planned behavior is the individual's intention to perform a given behavior" (p 181) Intentions are influenced by three key predictors - attitudes reflecting evaluations of the behavior, subjective norms reflecting social pressure, and perceived behavioral control reflecting ease or difficulty of performing the behavior To change plastic usage behaviors, interventions can target each of these elements

Introduction

Chapter two is addressing the theories that are relevant to the study and the consequences of single- use plastics on the environment The literature was gathered from a variety of information sources mostly from books, articles and the internet.

Background

The pervasive presence of plastics in the natural environment has led to a global crisis, with plastics disposable having a particularly devastating effect on ecosystems and wildlife Effective management of plastic waste is urgently needed, but the situation varies widely across different countries and regions, with some non-Asian countries making progress while others lag behind, and some parts of Africa struggling with inadequate waste management infrastructure In Vietnam, efforts are underway to address the issue, but much work remains to be done to ensure the proper disposal of plastic garbage and prevent further harm to the environment

As the world's population continues to grow and urban development accelerates, municipal solid waste generation has become a major challenge, with the variety of waste composition increasing at an alarming rate (Ngueyn et al ,2011) The volume of garbage created has increased as a result of the expansion of economic growth, technological advancement, urbanization, growing living standards and increased populations The United Nations predicts that by 2025 there will be 8,000 million people living on the planet and by 2050 there will be about 9,5 million people or 50% more people than there are now In Asia and Africa, this growth will equal 97% of the total The rapid expansion of the bourgeoisie in emerging economies is poised to have a profound impact on both the political and economic landscape The annual production of municipal, industrial and hazardous garbage worldwide now exceeds 4 billion tons (Veolia, 2009)

Hassan (2002) argues that the quantity and composition garbage generated are influenced by variables including the economic and social growth of the community, the level of industrial growth and the climate Municipalities incapacity to manage the growing amount of solid trash has eventually led to rampant environmental problems in urban areas

Due to increase in population, it eventually place a significant difficulties to any formal management system The extreme environmental degradation as well as health challenges brought on by uncollected and improperly disposed waste in streets, open space and clogged urban drainage systems as well as resource contamination nearby water supplies and unregulated landfills, many Asian cities are currently experiencing

The majority of nations around the world struggle with management of garbage The difficulties include reducing waste, spreading it, changing habits, collecting, transporting, treating, reusing and disposing of it UNEP (2005), there are a number of obstacles for industries at various stages of growth Nations that are developing end up neglecting management of solid waste in an attempt increase the rate of industrialization Ngocand Schnitzer (2009) assets that population growth.

Theoretical Framework

The theory of diffusion and innovations and the theory of planned behavior were used for the study

2.3.1 The Theory of Diffusion of Innovations

The theory of diffusion of innovations, which Everett M Rogers created in 1962, aims to explain how novel concepts, behaviors, or objects gradually permeate a population or social system The community in Quyet Thang ward might successfully adopt more environmentally friendly substitutes for single-use plastics if this theory is applied as a framework

According to Rogers (2003), "diffusion is the process by which an innovation is communicated through certain channels over time among the members of a social system" (p 5) There are four key elements in the diffusion process - the innovation itself, communication channels, time, and the social system An innovation is "an idea, practice, or object that is perceived as new by an individual or other unit of adoption" (Rogers, 2003, p 12) Communication channels facilitate information sharing and influence about the innovation Time is involved both in the innovation-decision process of an individual and the overall rate of adoption in a system The social system provides a boundary within which diffusion occurs

There are five established adopter categories in the diffusion process - innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards (Rogers, 2003) Innovators are eager to try new ideas, even if they end up failing As Rogers (2003) states, "the innovator plays a gatekeeping role in the flow of new ideas into a system" (p 283) Early adopters are more integrated in the social system and serve as role models for others Getting these groups to adopt reusable bags, straws, food containers and cutlery instead of disposable plastic versions can set an important example for others Opinion leaders could play a key role in accelerating diffusion through their interpersonal networks in the community

Rogers (2003) identified five characteristics of an innovation that influence adoption - relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability Innovations perceived as having more of these qualities tend to be adopted faster This highlights the need to ensure reusable alternative products provide strong advantages over disposable plastics in affordability, performance and sustainability They should also align with existing cultural values and norms around waste reduction Allowing people to try the new products before fully adopting them and making their benefits readily observable facilitates uptake

2.3.2 The Theory of Planned Behavior

The theory of planned behavior, developed by Icek Ajzen in the 1980s, examines how human behaviors are guided by behavioral intentions, which are in turn influenced by attitudes toward the behavior, subjective norms, and perceived control (Ajzen, 1991) This theory provides a model for understanding the factors that motivate individuals to use disposable plastics and how their behaviors could be shifted towards more sustainable alternatives instead

According to Ajzen (1991), "a central factor in the theory of planned behavior is the individual's intention to perform a given behavior" (p 181) Intentions are influenced by three key predictors - attitudes reflecting evaluations of the behavior, subjective norms reflecting social pressure, and perceived behavioral control reflecting ease or difficulty of performing the behavior To change plastic usage behaviors, interventions can target each of these elements

Education campaigns can influence attitudes by increasing awareness of the negative impacts of plastic waste on the environment Establishing positive social norms that frown upon disposable plastic usage through community pledges or agreements can apply normative social pressure Ensuring alternative reusable products are readily available and affordable enhances people's perceived control over changing their habits Reminders, prompts and incentives can further reinforce sustainable behaviors (Ajzen, 1991)

Ajzen (1991) argues the theory of planned behavior provides a useful conceptual framework for dealing with the complexities of human social behavior through understanding intentions and their key antecedents This allows developing interventions to systematically target attitudes, norms and control beliefs to change behaviors over time

2.3.3 Relevance to Managing Plastic Waste in Quyet Thang

Both the diffusion of innovations theory and the theory of planned behavior highlight the importance of communication, interpersonal influence, modeling desired behaviors, and enabling community-level change through systems thinking They provide relevant insights for transitioning Quyet Thang away from single-use plastics

Specific strategies suggested by the theories include identifying and supporting innovators and early adopters, leveraging opinion leaders, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable alternatives, establishing positive norms against disposables, shaping attitudes through education, ensuring access to affordable reusable options, and using prompts and incentives to motivate behavior change.

History of Plastics

As defined in the Collins English Dictionary, plastic is a lightweight material made from petroleum through a chemical process and is widely used in the production of various objects However, as Maina (2016) points out, the increasing reliance on single-use plastics has created significant environmental problems Despite this, the use of plastics continues to be pervasive in modern society Wachira et al (2014) trace the origins of plastic shopping bags to the 1960s, when the Swedish engineer Gustaf Thulin invented and produced them, a development that has had far-reaching consequences for the environment The Collins Dictionary defines plastic as a substance created chemically from petroleum that is portable, durable and utilized to create a wide variety of products Maina ( 2016) argues that plastic has turned into a need contemporary society, which is sad because it is not beneficial to the environment Wachira et al (2014), the development of shopping bags made of plastic was made possible by the creativity of Gustaf Thulin Swedish engineer during the 1960s Plastic has been known for a long time An English inventor named Alexander Parkesine created the first synthetic plastic in the late 1850s The Great International Exhibition of 1862 in London characterized this achievement This organic substance was composed of cellulose and was given the name of parkesin Alexander Parkesine noted that the material retained its shape when heated and cooled The thermoplastics most used today by manufacturing industries underwent massive development between 1930 and 1934 As examples, consider polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins, and polymethyl methacrylate as common thermoplastics Since then, research on plastics has continued because the development of plastics has not stopped

Adibi, J (2008) According to history, the development of plastics is considered to be one of the major technological achievements of mankind in the 20th century Since the invention of plastic, it is considered the most profitable material, taking the place of metal, glass and lastly wood The desire for plastic products in our daily life required a new development to improve the quality and strength of plastic Plastic materials have some unique properties that are comparable to different materials like glass, wood and metal A fresh development was needed to increase the strength and durability of plastic in order to satisfy the desire for products made from plastic in daily life Considering the characteristics plastic materials have these plastic materials are regarded to have some special qualities that are equivalent to those of other materials in terms of their capacity to assume any desired shape, resistance to their moisture, tensile strength The generation of solid household garbage has increased in Vietnam due to increase in population, rapid urbanization, development of tourism, overall growth in economy as well as the expansion of the plastics industry

Approximately there were 25.5 million ton of solid garbage generated by households in

2017, with 38 000 tons coming from urban areas and 32 000 from rural areas per single day MONRE, (2017) other materials in terms of their ability to take any desired shape, moisture resistance, tensile strength, etc

According to the Environmental Administration of Vietnam (2018), plastic waste accounts for approximately 8 to 12% of total municipal solid waste, resulting in an estimated 2.043.06 million tons of plastic waste generated annually Despite an average collection rate of household solid waste of 55% to 65% (Ministry of Construction, 2017), a significant amount of plastic waste remains uncollected, estimated to be around 0.714-1.377 million tons per year On the island of Phu Quoc in Kien Giang province, solid household waste is estimated to be 155 tons per day, with 29.5 tons (19%) of it being plastic waste Shockingly, only 1.1 tons of the plastic waste is recycled by households, while 17 tons (60%) are collected and 11.4 tons (40%) are still discharged directly into the environment (WWFViet Nam, 2018).

The broader impact of plastic waste on the natural environment

The United Nations Environmental Programmes 2011 report highlights the issue of plastic waste entering oceans each year, causing concern among scientists regarding the detrimental impact of small plastic fragments on the environment Although the exact role of plastics in carrying chemicals in oceans is not yet established, their presence poses a significant threat to both ecosystems and human health It is imperative to address this issue by taking necessary measures to reduce plastic waste and prevent its entry into the oceans (UNEP,2011)

As plastic debris continues to accumulate in the oceans despite international efforts to reduce its flow, concern among scientists regarding the potential impact of toxic compounds released from plastic debris on the natural environment is on the rise (ibid) The fishing industry in various parts of the world is grappling with the issue of plastics entering fishing nets, while the tourism industry is also being negatively impacted by plastic waste washing up on beaches, resulting in significant economic losses for both industries (ibid)

Polyethylene bags are frequently used in African countries to provide safe drinking water, but their improper disposal often leads to their accumulation in water bodies, as highlighted by Barnes et al (2009) While some measures have been taken to address the issue of disposable plastics on an international level, implementation and enforcement of laws regulating the discharge of plastics and litter from ships and offshore structures remain inadequate, as stated by UNEP (2009: 21) The improper disposal of plastics in water bodies poses a significant environmental challenge, and addressing this issue requires a collective and robust effort at all levels to prevent the further accumulation of plastic waste and its detrimental effects on aquatic life and ecosystems.

The influence that disposable, single-use plastic waste has on the natural environment

Improper disposal of waste can have harmful effects on the natural environment, as noted by Narayan, with plastic packaging waste being a significant contributor to solid waste and raising environmental concerns The accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and oceans has become an increasingly pressing issue, requiring urgent attention from individuals, corporations, and governments alike (Narayan, 1994)

According to Albertson and Huang (1995:1), most plastics are created with durability in mind, including resistance to environmental degradation However, the accumulation of single-use plastics has led to environmental pollution in various ways, causing the loss of ecological beauty, fragmentation and death of marine animals, and obstruction of sewerage systems in low-income countries, leading to unpleasant odors and the creation of breeding grounds for mosquitoes, as noted by

Plastic bags are widely used to transport food in low-income countries, and plastic water bottles are used to store various beverages like milk, cooking oil, and even hazardous substances like benzene and kerosene, as noted by Cliver (2006) However, this practice can pose significant health risks, including exposure to carcinogenic agents and crosscontamination by microorganisms While plastics offer numerous benefits to society and have enabled technological and medical advancements, their use and disposal can cause issues such as chemical leaching and transfer of chemicals to wildlife and humans

The current use of disposable plastic materials is unsustainable and poses a severe threat to the environment's sustainability, requiring urgent action to promote sustainable waste management practices and reduce plastic waste.

Management of disposable plastic garbage

As highlighted by Albertson and Huang (1995), the popularity of plastics in manufacturing can be attributed to their lower production costs compared to metals, woods, and glasses

However, the improper disposal of plastic packaging has led to visible litter, posing significant waste management challenges, as noted by Barnes et al (2009) The urgent need for sustainable plastic waste management solutions, both short and long term, cannot be overstated Environmentally conscious and friendly approaches are required to mitigate the impact of plastic waste on the environment, and efforts must be made to promote sustainable waste management practices to ensure a cleaner and healthier future

Plastic waste materials are being produced in large quantities to meet various needs, resulting in a significant challenge in their disposal Unlike natural plastics, most petrochemical-based plastics cannot be broken down by microorganisms, leading to concerns over their accumulation and impact on the environment To address this issue, bioplastics, which are derived from renewable resources, have been developed as a promising alternative to petrochemical-based plastics

Bioplastics, which are derived from natural sources like maize, starch, or potatoes, are becoming increasingly common and can be made to resemble traditional petrochemical plastics In addition to their use in wrapping materials, bioplastics have a wide range of applications, including in the medical field, where dissolvable stitches have been developed, eliminating the need for their removal after surgery The versatility of bioplastics offers a promising solution to the issue of plastic waste by promoting the use of sustainable materials (Spielthenner, 2012:10)

Biodegradation, incineration, and recycling are all required for total waste management

The most desirable is biodegradation, but it needs extensive R and D before it can be implemented (Albertson and Huang, 1995) The management of plastic waste, particularly plastic packaging waste, is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention It is evident that there is no single, straightforward solution to addressing this issue, and a multifaceted approach is required (ibid)

The proper disposal of packaging materials has become increasingly important, given the growing recognition of waste generation and management as critical environmental issues in contemporary society, as highlighted by Thompson et al (2009) Some years ago, the plastic industry recognized the problem and attempted to develop environmentally degradable plastics that could safely degrade and return to nature after use These biodegradable plastics were marketed as a complete waste management solution However, over time, it appears that these efforts were abandoned, and the issue of plastic waste management persists.

Characteristics of single use plastics (SUP) in Quyet Thang ward Thai Nguyen

Disposable plastic bags for example are given to shoppers for free in shops or supermarkets or open street vending areas "Any free product creates more demand, which is natural in human behavior." CEDARE's Dorghamy, personal communication (April 29, 2020) This shows exemplifies Vietnam's excessive consumption and production of plastic bags usage

As a result, they are extremely inexpensive to make, and it is a lucrative business The vast majority of SUP used in Vietnam is thin and of poor quality The problem is that thin and low-density plastic bags, rather than thick ones, can be cut easily and move effortlessly with the wind and water streams, resulting in the leakage of disposable plastics in the environment, which is the most serious concerned problem with SUP As a result, SUP provides no economic benefit to collectors.

Some countries banning disposable single use- plastic

The World Health Organization recognizes that a clean beach environment is one of the most important characteristics sought by visitors, as noted by Bartram and Rees (2000) This may be one of the reasons why many countries have taken steps to address plastic waste In this regard, various countries have implemented measures to reduce and eliminate plastic waste from their environments Surprisingly, recycling plastic bags is more expensive than producing them As a result, single use plastics used to include plastic bags are not recycled and instead end up in the environment They are blown everywhere when they are dumped in landfills, including into oceans, rivers, and lakes Plastic bags degrade when exposed to the elements for an extended period of time

Plastics have become the fastest growing component of waste, with a significant portion of it littering the environment, as noted by Unnithan (1998) A second plastic revolution is required, building on the first one that brought about the age of plastics and transformed human society However, the components used to make plastics were not carefully chosen, resulting in widespread pollution and hazardous exposure to humans To address this issue, future smart plastics should be versatile, non-toxic, biodegradable, and made from renewable resources (ibid)

In response to devastating floods that submerged two-thirds of the nation in water between

1988 to 1998, Bangladesh imposed a strict ban on plastic bags in 2002, as noted in the source The floods were caused by discarded plastic bags, highlighting the detrimental impact of plastic waste on the environment Similarly, China implemented a fee on plastic bags and a total ban on ultra-thin plastic bags on June 1, 2008, due to concerns over general waste and sewage These efforts demonstrate the urgency and importance of promoting sustainable waste management practices and reducing plastic waste to mitigate its negative impact on the environment It is essential to continue to explore and implement environmentally friendly solutions to ensure a cleaner and healthier future for all

To address the issue of plastic waste, Hong Kong has implemented a policy prohibiting retailers from giving away or providing plastic bags of a certain thickness for free, resulting in a 90% decrease in the use of plastic bags Similarly, India banned the production of plastic bags with a thickness of less than 20 micrometers in 2002 to prevent clogging of municipal drainage systems and to protect sacred cows from ingesting plastic bags Despite this policy's implementation, enforcement remains a challenge Malaysia has also implemented plastic bag taxes in the state of Selangor every Saturday since 2011, as noted in the source (ibid).

Several African nations have taken steps to restrict or prohibit the use of plastic materials

Several African countries, including Rwanda, Ethiopia, Mauritania, Mali, Somalia, and Tanzania, have implemented bans on the use of single-use plastic In fact, Mauritania and Mali went as far as making plastic bag production and use a criminal offense in 2012, making Africa the leader in the global fight against single-use plastic bags South Africa and Kenya have already banned ultra-thin plastic bags, and Ivory Coast is the latest African country to join the movement by prohibiting the production and use of single-use plastic.

Rwanda

As reported by the News Times, Rwanda has implemented an effective ban on the use of plastic bags by educating its citizens, particularly traders and business stakeholders, about the environmental dangers of using plastic bags Even those in rural areas are aware that using single-use plastic violates environmental laws, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach (ibid)

In fact, a man was arrested in Rwanda for attempting to smuggle a shipment of polythene bags into the country, which is considered an environmental hazard According to Rwandan law, anyone found selling polythene bags without authorization is liable to a fine of Rwf 10,000 to 300,000, and the penalty is doubled in the case of recidivism To raise awareness of the dangers associated with illegal business activities related to plastic bags, the suspect was required to perform community work, reminding others of the importance of sustainable waste management practices

Rwanda's strict legislation against single-use plastic bags sends a clear message to potential bag sellers and raises awareness among citizens about the environmental risks posed by disposable plastics The opposition to single-use plastics in the environment is strong, as demonstrated by the requirement for anyone entering

Rwanda to surrender plastic bags and single-use plastics at the airport and borders Despite the positive impact of this environmental decision, Rwanda faces challenges as certain businesses have been adversely affected by the law The alternative to plastic bags is paper, which is more expensive and less durable, posing challenges for businesses that rely on sturdy packaging

The issue of trash management in Southern Africa has been overlooked despite its growing impact on the environment With economic development comes an increase in packaging and plastics, contributing to the rise in litter and waste Unfortunately, trash can take years to degrade, and the pieces can entangle or be swallowed by wildlife, posing a significant threat to their health Reports indicate that littering has increased throughout Southern Africa, with Lake Kariba being particularly affected by plastic bags and beer cans dropped by fishermen and visitors (SOE, 2000) The open burning of waste at dumps only adds to the problem, releasing a complex mixture of contaminants into the air, including smoke and particulates While the health effects are unknown in Southern Africa, other parts of the world have found that burning dumps produces dioxins, one of the deadliest chemicals (ibid)

As an African country with a better economy, South Africa has taken steps to address the issue of plastic bags by passing legislation prohibiting supermarkets and shopkeepers from providing thin plastic bags to customers All stores are now required to provide thicker, more durable, and environmentally-friendly plastic bags at a cost to the customers

However, this legislation poses a challenge as it could lead to job losses in the plastic industry, and it increases the expense for the poor who may struggle to afford the thicker plastic bags.

Environmental Impacts of Plastic Waste

Plastic waste is a significant environmental concern and is causing widespread damage to the environment and public health in various Asian countries, including Vietnam Plastic bags are particularly problematic as they do not biodegrade and instead break down into smaller fragments, known as micro-plastics, that accumulate in landfills According to Cressey (2016), this accumulation of micro-plastics poses a severe threat to the environment and public health Stevens (2002) also highlights that the majority of plastic bags are resistant to degradation by the sun and microorganisms, allowing them to persist in the environment for thousands of years.

The environmental impact of plastic shopping bags is twofold Firstly, the production of plastic bags requires nonrenewable resources derived from fossil fuels, contributing to the depletion of these resources Secondly, plastic bags contribute to existing environmental problems, such as litter, waste, and emissions A report by the Queensland Parliament in Australia highlights the significant impact of plastic bags, describing them as a "short term convenience with long term impacts"(Queensland 2010; 5)

2.15 The situation in Thai Nguyen

Given the large number of population living in Thai Nguyen, including university students, there are many street markets that sell goods and use single-use plastic for packaging Many people are unaware of how to properly maintain the environment This pollutes the environment And negative impacts on environment Single use plastics is thrown everywhere in the houses/dormitory where university students live on Tuaf Because of the single use plastics pollution in Tuaf, this problem is affecting the fish ponds

According to the research I conducted, there is no law that requires a person to donate at this time Disposable plastic materials, particularly single-use plastic bags, were introduced in Thai Nguyen for packaging from supermarkets and free markets Plastic bottles for water and other beverages became popular later on because they were hygienic and widely available Over the years, single-use plastic bags and bottles have become increasingly popular and are widely used by both retailers and consumers on a daily basis This is due to their lower cost, lightweight, and portability, making them a convenient option for many

The lack of research on single-use disposable plastic waste in Thai Nguyen highlights the need for an ethical evaluation of the level of awareness and responsibility among the general public, supermarket and grocery store managers, and street vendors in the urban area This study aims to contribute to closing this gap by examining the extent to which the issue of single-use plastic waste is understood and addressed in the community It is worth noting that some communities in Thai Nguyen reuse these plastic bags and bottles for packaging vegetables and local beverages before disposing of them in the environment, highlighting the need for sustainable waste management practices and the promotion of environmentally friendly alternatives

This chapter reviewed the relevant literature and theories surrounding single-use plastic waste and its environmental impacts Plastics have become ubiquitous in modern society due to their low cost and versatility However, single-use plastics pose a significant environmental challenge due to their resistance to biodegradation and accumulation in landfills and oceans, polluting the environment and harming wildlife Managing plastic waste properly and reducing disposable plastic usage are key to mitigating its effects The diffusion of innovations theory and theory of planned behavior provide useful frameworks for transitioning communities towards more sustainable alternatives to plastic Countries around the world have begun implementing policies to restrict or ban single-use plastics, with mixed results In Thai Nguyen City, overuse of disposable plastics at markets and shops highlights the need for increased awareness and adoption of sustainable waste management practices Overall, while plastics offer benefits, effective solutions are required to tackle the environmental problems caused by single-use plastic waste and promote a cleaner and healthier environment

PART III MEHODOLOGY AND METHODS

The chapter will look into the management of single-use plastic pollution and its environmental effects in Thai Nguyen City, specifically in the Quyet Thang Ward.The environmental impact of single-use disposable plastic materials, particularly singleuse plastic bags, bottles drinks, in Quyet Thang Ward, Vietnam, concentrating on Thai Nguyen City This chapter describes the study's location area as well as its design, methodology, and methods This chapter describes the study's research methods, including the sampling technique, the research instruments, the target population and data analysis Qualitative and quantitative methodology is used in this study

Observation, in-depth interviews and interviews were used to collect primary data

Secondary data sources included relevant literature from the University of Agriculture and Forestry's main library, as well as books, journals, and research papers from the library and the internet

The study involved free markets and supermarkets around quyet thang ward It also included grocery shops around and Tuaf University domitory

Satellite map of Quyet Thang commune, Thai Nguyen cit is shown on the figure below

In the context of research, the target population refers to the specific group of individuals or entities that the research is focused on This group is defined based on specific characteristics or attributes that are relevant to the research question, such as age, gender, education level, occupation, or geographic location (Salkind 2012)

Students, street vendors, and grocery stores are examples of qualitative data sources The questionnaire survey was chosen for the Quyet Thang ward Min supermarkets, street vendors, and grocery shops were chosen as the target population because they are the final consumers of packaging, so their participation in final disposal of disposable plastic waste is imperative

According to Gupta (2010), a research design is a crucial blueprint that outlines the methods and procedures for data collection, measurement, and analysis in a study This includes decisions about the timing, location, amount, and manner in which data will be collected, measured, and analyzed To gather a comprehensive understanding, the study utilized a mixed method approach, which involved collecting both qualitative and quantitative data simultaneously This method was further enhanced by the use of triangulation, as described by Creswell (2003), which involves the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data in a single study to avoid the problems associated with relying solely on one theory, method, or data set, as noted by Neuman (2003) To collect data from the field, the researcher employed multiple data collection instruments, including a questionnaire for quantitative data and in-depth interviews and observations for qualitative data This approach allowed the researcher to gather information from Thai Nguyen university students, dormitory occupants, and other university residents, as well as key informants The study utilized a descriptive research design, which involves observing and describing a subject's situation without influencing it in any way, in accordance with the mixed method approach

Neuman (2003) defines a descriptive design as a method of providing a detailed picture of specific details within a situation, social setting, or relationship The purpose of descriptive designs is to offer additional information about a specific characteristic within a field of study While it has been criticized for its narrow scope and limiting analysis of events, concepts, and theories to what they are, rather than delving into their underlying components, the descriptive design was found to be the most suitable for the study at hand This is partly because the design is considered relatively straightforward to execute, and data is relatively easy to obtain and interpret using simple descriptive statistics The choice of the descriptive design for the study allowed for the collection of detailed and specific information about the research topic, which was critical to achieving the study's objectives The simplicity of the design also made it possible to gather data quickly and efficiently, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the research problem While the descriptive design may have limitations, it was found to be the best fit for the study, and the findings obtained were of great value in providing an in-depth understanding of the research topic

This research used both primary and secondary sources to gather information data Questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and observation were used to collect primary data as an important source Secondary sources of information used included data from journals, the internet, and reports

Research instruments are crucial tools used to gather data from respondents, as noted by Burs and Grove (2011) In this study, the structured questionnaire was utilized to gather data from participants such as students, while in-depth interview guide questions were used to obtain data from supermarkets, open street vendors, and other stakeholders The use of different research instruments allowed for the collection of a variety of data types, including both quantitative and qualitative data, which facilitated a comprehensive analysis of the research topic The structured questionnaire was particularly useful in collecting data from a larger sample size, while the in-depth interview guide questions allowed for a more detailed exploration of the experiences and perspectives of specific individuals and groups

To gather information for this study, a structured questionnaire was utilized A questionnaire is a structured framework consisting of a series of questions and scales designed to collect primary data, as defined by Shiu (2009) The structured nature of the questionnaire allowed the researcher to collect systematic and well-organized data sets Closed-ended questions were utilized to save respondents time during the completion process, as noted by Bryman and Bell (2011), and the researcher attempted to reduce bias or influence on participants by allowing them to answer questions without the researcher's direct help, as advised by Salkind (2012) Despite the acknowledged limitations of questionnaires, such as non-response, provision of incorrect answers, and lack of flexibility, the researcher made considerable efforts to design a questionnaire that encouraged respondents to participate and provide responses that addressed the research problem The questionnaire consisted of 11 questions, divided into sections covering respondents' demographic and biographical information, as well as the dependent and independent variables that constituted the objectives of the research The tool was used to assess the management of single-use plastic pollution and its environmental effects in Quyet Thang ward, including respondents' emotional, moral, and attitude towards single-use plastic waste disposal

The research relied on interviews to explain the connection between single-use plastics pollution and the environmental consequences of waste management Officials from the selected supermarkets and the Thai Nguyen Municipality were interviewed using the interview questions This study aimed to provide comprehensive information on the effects of perceptions, attitudes, moral and emotional appeals on waste management To achieve this, the interview technique was utilized, which is adaptable and allows for the collection of accurate descriptions of the participants' experiences and knowledge related to the subject under study, as noted by Giorgi (2009) This technique was particularly important, as it allowed the researcher to collect data that reflected the opinions of the respondents rather than pre-determined responses Additionally, the use of interpersonal skills during the interview process enabled the researcher to elicit more information and achieve a higher response rate, according to Wegner (2012) To obtain participants' consent, the researcher scheduled phone or inperson appointments with respondents to explain the reason for the interview and seek their agreement to participate

3.9 Data Collection Procedure and Administration

The situation in Thai Nguyen

Given the large number of population living in Thai Nguyen, including university students, there are many street markets that sell goods and use single-use plastic for packaging Many people are unaware of how to properly maintain the environment This pollutes the environment And negative impacts on environment Single use plastics is thrown everywhere in the houses/dormitory where university students live on Tuaf Because of the single use plastics pollution in Tuaf, this problem is affecting the fish ponds

According to the research I conducted, there is no law that requires a person to donate at this time Disposable plastic materials, particularly single-use plastic bags, were introduced in Thai Nguyen for packaging from supermarkets and free markets Plastic bottles for water and other beverages became popular later on because they were hygienic and widely available Over the years, single-use plastic bags and bottles have become increasingly popular and are widely used by both retailers and consumers on a daily basis This is due to their lower cost, lightweight, and portability, making them a convenient option for many

The lack of research on single-use disposable plastic waste in Thai Nguyen highlights the need for an ethical evaluation of the level of awareness and responsibility among the general public, supermarket and grocery store managers, and street vendors in the urban area This study aims to contribute to closing this gap by examining the extent to which the issue of single-use plastic waste is understood and addressed in the community It is worth noting that some communities in Thai Nguyen reuse these plastic bags and bottles for packaging vegetables and local beverages before disposing of them in the environment, highlighting the need for sustainable waste management practices and the promotion of environmentally friendly alternatives.

Chapter summary