The study assessed college students' awareness and attitudes towards microplastics and zero-waste practices in G metropolitan city, South Korea, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Increased reliance on disposable products during the pandemic impacted students’ zero-waste behaviors, with family background and the use of disposables being key influencing factors.
To promote zero-waste behaviors, the study highlights the importance of educating students about the health effects of microplastics and encouraging the use of eco-friendly products for better environmental preservation.