Perceived risk of human exposure to microplastics: a probability and impact-based assessment

Microplastic (MPs) contamination is an environmental issue with significant impact on public health, economic growth, and the natural ecosystem. This study evaluates public perceptions of MPs pollution in Romania through a structured questionnaire administered to 456 respondents, including members of the general public, students, and local authority representatives from urban and rural areas. The survey focused on economic, health, and environmental impacts using a seven-point Likert scale to quantify perceived probability, impact, and risk. Results indicate that health and environmental domains are perceived as the most affected, with over one-third of respondents assigning the highest probability rating, while economic impacts were viewed as moderate. The mean perceived probability was 65.14%, with higher variability for health (45.89%) and environment (47.16%) than for economic impacts (28.62%). Impact scores were moderate for economic concerns and high for health and environmental concerns. Risk scores, calculated by integrating probability and impact, increased proportionally with perceived likelihood, highlighting strong public awareness of potential consequences. These findings reveal nuanced public perceptions, emphasising the importance of addressing health and environmental risks while recognising the comparatively lower perceived economic threat. The study provides evidence-based insights to inform policymakers and stakeholders in developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of MPs pollution.