Littering dynamics in a coastal industrial setting: The influence of non-resident populations

Littering dynamics in a coastal industrial setting: The influence of non-resident populations

2014 / research

Littering dynamics in a coastal industrial setting: The influence of non-resident populations

Marnie L Campbell, Chloe Paterson de Heer, Amber Kinslow, Littering 
dynamics in a coastal industrial setting: The influence of non-resident 
populations, Marine Pollution Bulletin, Available online 31 January 
2014, ISSN 0025-326X, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.01.015.
(http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X14000162)
Abstract: We examined if there is truth to the preconceptions that 
non-resident workers (including FIFO/DIDO’s) detract from communities. 
We used marine debris to test this, specifically focussing on littering 
behaviour and evidence of awareness of local environmental programs that 
focus on marine debris. Littering was most common at recreational areas, 
then beaches and whilst boating. Twenty-five percent of respondents that 
admit to littering, reported no associated guilt with their actions. 
Younger respondents litter more frequently. Thus, non-resident workers 
litter at the same rate as permanent residents, visitors and tourists in 
this region, within this study. Few respondents are aware of the 
environmental programs that operate in their local region. Awareness was 
influenced by a respondent’s residency (non-residents are less aware), 
age, and level of education. To address this failure we recommend that 
industries, that use non-resident workers, should develop inductions 
that expose new workers to the environmental programs in their region.
Keywords: Marine debris; FIFO; DIDO; Littering behaviour; Plastics; 
Social licence to operate

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