Chapter 1: Valorisation: Public Awareness and Behavioural Intents in Aquatic Waste Management

Marine waste pollution is a severe environmental issue, and innovative waste valorisation measures are needed to counteract its effects. As awareness of waste management globally continues to grow, awareness and practice of aquatic waste valorisation are still quite low. This research examines public awareness, attitudes and practices towards aquatic waste valorisation, including technological perceptions and policy implications. A mixed-methods design was used, with quantitative surveys complemented by structural equation modelling (SEM) to examine associations between awareness, behavioural engagement and technological trust. Key determinants of participation were measured in the study, such as personal responsibility, institutional accountability and technological interventions like artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR).

Results reveal that levels of awareness regarding aquatic waste valorisation are moderate (Mean = 3.61), and social networks significantly influence public awareness (Mean = 3.67). Positive attitudes towards waste valorisation were found (Mean = 4.11 for personal responsibility, Mean = 4.16 for government support), but willingness to participate (Mean = 4.14) outweighs actual involvement (Mean = 3.36). Inhibitors like complexity (Mean = 3.35) and information deficiency (Mean = 3.73) prevent participation while economic rewards (Mean = 3.88) could be motivating factors. SEM findings validate that awareness plays a significant role in shaping technological perception (β = 0.68), highlighting the educational role in AI-based waste management solutions. This research underscores the need for integrated policy actions, technological measures and grassroots initiatives to further aquatic waste valorisation activities. Although public opinion is positive, structural impediments need to be overcome to realise intention into action.