Plastic waste characteristics and community responses in mangrove-influenced coastal villages of Kampung Laut, Cilacap, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract. Astuti AR, Putri DS, Arlysia V, Santika YE, Safitri FE, Setyawan AD. 2025. Plastic waste characteristics and community responses in mangrove-influenced coastal villages of Kampung Laut, Cilacap, Indonesia. Indo Pac J Ocean Life 9: 36-45. Plastic pollution presents a significant threat to coastal and mangrove ecosystems, particularly in low-income and infrastructure-deficient regions of Southeast Asia. This study investigates the composition of plastic waste and the perceptions and behaviors of local communities in three mangrove-influenced villages of Kampung Laut Sub-district, Cilacap, Indonesia. Field surveys conducted in 33 sampling plots revealed that plastic waste was predominantly composed of single-use items, especially polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), reflecting both domestic consumption and livelihood-related activities such as fisheries and aquaculture. A structured questionnaire grounded in the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP) framework was administered to 91 respondents. Statistical analyses, including Principal Component Analysis, Pearson correlation, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), were employed to explore the relationships among cognitive and behavioral variables. The results indicated that knowledge significantly influenced attitudes, which were positively associated with pro-environmental behavior; however, knowledge alone did not directly predict action. Sociodemographic constraints—particularly low education and income levels—further limited behavioral change despite moderate awareness. Comparisons with regional and global studies suggest that such gaps are common in coastal communities. These findings underscore the need for integrated waste governance strategies that combine education, infrastructure, and locally adapted regulations, alongside stronger integration between plastic waste management and mangrove conservation efforts.