Unveiling Microplastic Ignorance: A Study on Knowledge and Awareness Among Pune’s Urban Population – A Mixed Method Approach

Microplastic pollution has become a global concern with potentially severe environmental and health implications. This research explores the level of knowledge and awareness about microplastics among the urban population of Pune, a busy city in India. A mixed-methods approach was employed using a sequential explanatory design. In the first phase, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 18 participants selected via purposive sampling. In the second phase, quantitative data were collected from 100 participants using a survey and convenience sampling. By combining insights from surveys, interviews, and existing literature, the study analyzed the extent to which residents of Pune are informed about microplastic pollution and their willingness to take action. The findings highlight the need for increased awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to address the growing microplastic problem in urban areas. The study concludes that plastics have become an integral part of our lives, necessitating robust mechanisms to eliminate them from daily use.