Journal of Polymer & Composites Original Research
Consumer Perception of Biodegradable Polymer Products in Sustainable Tourism
Abstract
The increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism has intensified the need to reduce plastic waste and promote environmentally responsible consumption practices across tourism and hospitality settings. Biodegradable polymer products have emerged as a potential alternative to conventional plastics; however, their wider adoption depends not only on environmental attributes but also on consumer perceptions, product evaluations, economic considerations, and sustainability-oriented attitudes. This study empirically examines the determinants of consumer perception and acceptance of biodegradable polymer products within the context of sustainable tourism. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 238 respondents through a structured questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale. The study evaluates the influence of Environmental Awareness, Perceived Environmental Benefits, Perceived Product Quality, Price Perception, Sustainable Tourism Attitude, and Social Influence on Consumer Perception and Acceptance. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression using Ordinary Least Squares were employed for empirical analysis. The findings indicate that the overall regression model is statistically significant, F(6,231) = 11.549, p < 0.001, explaining 23.1% of the variance in consumer perception and acceptance (R² = 0.231; adjusted R² = 0.211). Among the six predictors, Sustainable Tourism Attitude emerges as the only statistically significant positive predictor (β = 0.263, p < 0.001). Environmental Awareness, Perceived Product Quality, and Social Influence exhibit positive but statistically non-significant effects, while Perceived Environmental Benefits and Price Perception do not demonstrate significant independent effects. The findings highlight that consumer acceptance is embedded within a broader sustainable tourism orientation. The study recommends integrating biodegradable polymer products into destination sustainability initiatives, strengthening credible environmental communication, and emphasizing product functionality, quality, and responsible consumption.
Keywords
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