PLASTIC POLLUTION AND YOUTH ENGAGEMENT: ADDRESSING NEGATIVE HEALTH IMPACTS

Abstract

The health impacts of plastic pollution are critical issues to be addressed in Nigeria and globally. It is speculated that the engagement of youth in tackling plastic pollution will prove effective. Youth, who represent a significant proportion of the Nigerian population are said to not be fully active in finding solutions. This thesis, “Plastic Pollution in Nigeria and Youth Engagement: Addressing Negative Health Impacts” examines youth engagement and influencing tools for addressing plastic pollution. The study used an online platform to administer an anonymous survey to 43 Nigerian youth members of an environmental organization, aged 18 to 24 years. On the basis of demographic indicators, results indicated that most participants were actively involved in fighting plastic pollution in Nigeria. The majority of the participants agreed that awareness exercises, peer influence, use of social/behavioural applications and economic incentives such as scholarships are useful influencing tools for addressing plastic pollution.