TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION: AN EXAMINATION OF THE USAGE OF RECYCLABLE AND BIODEGRADABLE PRODUCTS AMONG MALAYSIANS

Abstract

Abstract: One of the 2030 agendas for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is to achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, substantially reduce waste production through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse, and encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices. However, this effort becomes difficult due to a need for more awareness among Malaysian. Solid Waste Management and Public Cleaning Corporation (SWCorp) has highlighted that the production of daily garbage among Malaysians has recorded an increase of 100.75 per cent. Recognising the importance of reducing waste and protecting the environment, this study examines the contribution of price, green knowledge, and environmental awareness towards using recyclable and biodegradable products practised by the Malaysian public. By employing correlational and regression analyses, the study analysed the final data of 316 respondents representing the Malaysian public in Klang Valley. The questionnaire form for the study was modified from previous studies, and data were analysed using SPSS 23 software. The study's findings show a significant relationship between price, green knowledge, and environmental awareness toward using recyclable and biodegradable products. The study's findings also show that environmental awareness contributes as much as 78.7% to the usage of recyclable and biodegradable products. This study suggests several strategies to improve the usage of recyclable and biodegradable products. This empirical study validates the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework for explaining sustainable consumption in Malaysia. Keywords: Price; Green Knowledge; Environmental Awareness; Recyclable and Biodegradable Products; Malaysia