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Microplastics in personal care products: Exploring perceptions of environmentalists, beauticians and students
A G Anderson1, J Grose2, S Pahl3
1School of Law, Criminology & Government, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, United Kingdom; School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia.
Abstract:
Microplastics enter the environment as a result of larger plastic items breaking down ('secondary') and from particles originally manufactured at that size ('primary'). Personal care products are an important contributor of secondary microplastics (typically referred to as 'microbeads'), for example in toothpaste, facial scrubs and soaps. Consumers play an important role in influencing the demand for these products and therefore any associated environmental consequences. Hence we need to understand public perceptions in order to help reduce emissions of microplastics. This study explored awareness of plastic microbeads in personal care products in three groups: environmental activists, trainee beauticians and university students in South West England. Focus groups were run, where participants were shown the quantity of microbeads found in individual high-street personal care products. Qualitative analysis showed that while the environmentalists were originally aware of the issue, it lacked visibility and immediacy for the beauticians and students. Yet when shown the amount of plastic in a range of familiar everyday personal care products, all participants expressed considerable surprise and concern at the quantities and potential impact. Regardless of any perceived level of harm in the environment, the consensus was that their use was unnatural and unnecessary. This research could inform future communications with the public and industry as well as policy initiatives to phase out the use of microbeads.
Insights
Public awareness of plastic microbeads in personal care products is low, even among environmentalists. However, when shown the quantities, all groups expressed concern, deeming microbead use unnecessary and unnatural.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Consumer Behavior
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics, originating from larger plastics (secondary) or manufactured small (primary), pollute the environment.
- Personal care products, like toothpaste and scrubs, are significant sources of secondary microplastics, commonly known as microbeads.
- Consumer demand significantly influences the environmental impact of these products, necessitating an understanding of public perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore public awareness of plastic microbeads in personal care products.
- To assess perceptions among environmental activists, trainee beauticians, and university students.
- To inform strategies for reducing microplastic emissions.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of focus groups in South West England.
- Participants were shown the quantity of microbeads in common personal care items.
- Exploration of awareness and concern regarding microplastic pollution.
Main Results:
- Environmental activists had prior awareness, but beauticians and students lacked visibility and immediacy regarding microbeads.
- All participant groups expressed surprise and concern upon visualizing the quantity of microplastics in everyday products.
- A consensus emerged that microbead use is unnatural and unnecessary, irrespective of perceived environmental harm.
Conclusions:
- Public perception of microplastic pollution from personal care products is often underestimated.
- Increased visibility of microplastic quantities can foster concern and a desire for change.
- Findings can guide public communication, industry practices, and policy for phasing out microbeads.
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