The invisible enemy. Public knowledge of microplastics is needed to face the current microplastics crisis

Abstract

Microplastics are emerging pollutants that threaten marine resources globally today. Being difficult to see for the human eye, their public perception and risk perception depend upon the information given to citizens. Since the psychosocial theory postulates the importance of knowledge, attitude, and perceived control to undertake pro-environmental behaviors, in this review we have analyzed relevant literature in order to look for solutions of psychosocial nature to stop microplastic emissions. We employed qualitative contingency statistics and clustering analysis of relevant terms. The consumer's knowledge about microplastics was central and directly connected with the willingness to adopt a pro-environmental behavior, while risk perception and perceived control were less important. Significant geographical gaps and differences between cultures were identified. Based on our analyses, the following measures are recommended: 1) Create baselines of knowledge about microplastics to design ad-hoc interventions for their control; 2) Explore the role of environmental values as mediators between knowledge and behavior against microplastics; 3) Enlarge the geographical scope of present studies, at least to include African countries; 4) Undertake intercultural studies to determine the scale of interventions for public awareness about the problem; 5) Study the perspective of the industry, politicians and journalists; 6) Improve scientific communication about this new threat; 7) Introduce the topic in formal and non-formal education settings.