Littering dynamics in a coastal industrial setting: the influence of non-resident populations.
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.
School of Medical and Applied Science, Central Queensland University, Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone, Queensland 4680, Australia. Electronic address: m.campbell@cqu.edu.au.
Marnie L
ML
Campbell
School of Medical and Applied Science, Central Queensland University, Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone, Queensland 4680, Australia.
Chloe
C
Paterson de Heer
School of Medical and Applied Science, Central Queensland University, Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone, Queensland 4680, Australia.
Amber
A
Kinslow
D001364:Awareness; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004777:Environment; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry; D011998:Recreation; D012037:Refuse Disposal; D014866:Waste Products / Q000032:analysis* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014873:Water Pollutants / Q000032:analysis*; D014876:Water Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
D014866:Waste Products; D014873:Water Pollutants
DIDO; FIFO; Littering behaviour; Marine debris; Plastics; Social licence to operate