Knowledge on the Health Effects of Single Use Plastics and Disposal Practices Among Street Food Vendors in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT The use of plastic packaging is increasing due to its role in reducing food wastage and meeting the growing demand driven by population and market expansion. Single-use plastics are extensively utilized in packaging for their impact resistance, insulation properties, lightweight nature, and ease of handling. This study assessed the knowledge on the health effects of single use plastics and disposal practices among street food vendors in Calabar municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria, using a cross-sectional descriptive design. A sample of 241 vendors was selected through a multi-stage sampling technique, and data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire facilitated by the Open Data Kit. The data were analyzed with SPSS Version 23 and Microsoft Excel. Ethical approval was obtained from the Department of Public Health Ethical Clearance Committee. All 241 respondents participated, with a majority being female 211(87.6%). Although 131(54.4%) of the respondents had good knowledge of the health effects of single-use plastics, 132(54.8%) still heavily utilized them. Common disposal practices included using regular bins, with many vendors unaware of designated waste collection points and recycling facilities. The Chi-square test showed no significant association between respondents' knowledge of health effects and the utilization of single-use plastics (p = 0.31). The findings highlight no gap between awareness and practice, emphasising the need for educational initiatives and improved infrastructure to promote sustainable waste management. Therefore, Government should develop and enforce policies that mandate proper disposal practices and limit the use of single use plastics among street food vendors.