The use of Plastic and Recycling Strategies adopted by Retail Establishments: The Case of Bahrain

Abstract

The increased usage of non-biodegradable packaging materials as well as ineffective recycling strategies results in greenhouse gas emissions, more harmful than carbon dioxide. This study identified consumer behavior and perception related to the increased use of plastic bags in transporting household goods from shops. Specifically, the study identified the status and effectiveness of the use of Non-Biodegradable packaging methods amongst retailing establishments in Budaiya and Saar area, in the Kingdom of Bahrain in terms of Use, Frequency, Recycling Strategies adopted, and the problems encountered in recycling and re-use packaging materials. Descriptive Study Method of Research was used in this study. Likewise the researcher also used the 5 point Likert’s Scale in the Study. The respondents strongly agreed that there is high usage of plastic bags in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The reason given was, durability, cheaper price, lighter than other alternatives and easy storage. The rating of agree was given in terms of high frequency of single use thin plastic bags given to the customers than other packing methods, because of the shopping trips made frequently .The respondents moderately agreed that recycling strategies adopted by both the retail establishments and the consumers are in place in the Kingdom of Bahrain but indiscriminate use and disposal of these plastic carrier bags do pose a significant environmental threat to the country. Plastic carrier bags were found to be favored in transporting high-risk food products to avoid possible cross contamination. The most common challenge noted was lack of strict regulations concerning use of reusable bags, lack of awareness level among the citizens, and innovative recycling strategies. Consumers’ perceptions and usage behaviors in connection with respective government’s policies and implementation of recycling systems could be highly decisive in reducing the eco-impact of plastic and paper shopping bags.