Public perceptions, knowledge, responsibilities, and behavior intentions on marine litter: Identifying profiles of small oceanic islands inhabitants

Marine litter is a global threat, particularly on oceanic islands where the problem exacerbated. Perceptions, knowledge, awareness, and attitudes towards theme are crucial in its mitigation prevention. This study assessed these points through questionnaire to inhabitants of Portuguese archipelago. Data revealed that people associate marine with plastic impacts well informed about sources pathways. Yet, degradation rates items were frequently underestimated was attributed, among others, littering, single-use products, excessive packaging. Some individuals did not consider themselves responsible for reducing litter, attributing responsibilities third parties. The youngest group, men, students ones who reported less litter-reducing intentions behaviors. Distinct profiles traced using questionnaire's answers, highlighting needs literacy. Individuals do current threat live community does care (profiles 1 2) groups needed deeper intervention, due their low perception understanding problem. literacy, management, governance measures necessary so public recognizes as worried impacts, avoids use, choses re-useable products (profile 4). In studied islands, results indicated fully perceived by public. A transformative shift way educated behave waste pollution required, thereby importance increasing perceptions assessment literacy society.