FAKTORS AFFECTING EFFORTS TO REDUCE PLASTIC WASTE AMONG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstrak

Plastic waste is a significant environmental problem, especially among elementary school students as the next generation who are vulnerable to single-use plastic consumption patterns. This literature study conducted a systematic literature review of 30 articles discussing the factors that influence efforts to reduce plastic waste among elementary school students. The results of the review show that there are six main factors at play, namely: environmental knowledge and education, environmentally friendly attitudes and behaviors, school facilities and support, community participation, creativity and innovation in waste management, and family and home environment support. Knowledge and education have been proven to be dominant factors in increasing children's awareness and behavioral change towards plastic waste. Positive attitudes and environmentally friendly behavioral habits reinforce the reduction of plastic use. The support of school infrastructure and family involvement are drivers of sustainable environmentally conscious behavior. A multidimensional approach involving the entire school ecosystem and community has proven effective in fostering a culture of minimal plastic use. Therefore, the research recommendations emphasize the importance of integrating environmental education into the curriculum, teacher training, plastic reduction policies in schools, and the active role of parents and the community in supporting sustainable plastic waste reduction. This approach is expected to produce a generation that cares for and is responsible for the environment in a sustainable manner.