Eco-Consciousness in Action: Student Perspectives on Sustainable Packaging

The importance of eco-friendly packaging is increasingly recognized by consumers worldwide, including in Malaysia, where it plays a crucial role in both protecting food from contamination and minimizing environmental impact. This study focuses on the knowledge, concern, and readiness of hospitality students at Sungai Petani Community College towards the use of eco-friendly packaging. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 174 students enrolled in culinary and hotel operations programs. The results reveal that the respondents possess high levels of knowledge and concern regarding eco-friendly packaging, acknowledging its environmental benefits. However, apprehensions about potential cost increases or additional taxes associated with such packaging were also noted. Despite these concerns, a significant proportion of students expressed their willingness to adopt eco-friendly packaging in their daily routines. Furthermore, the study identified a significant positive correlation between knowledge and readiness, as well as between concern and readiness, suggesting that increased awareness and concern can drive readiness to use eco-friendly packaging. These findings underscore the critical need for educational initiatives aimed at enhancing students' understanding of sustainable practices while also addressing perceived barriers to their acceptance. The study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers, highlighting the necessity of integrating sustainability education into hospitality training programs to foster sustainable behavior and practices in the industry. Future research should explore the long-term impact of such educational interventions and investigate strategies to overcome economic barriers to the adoption of eco-friendly packaging.