Práticas de consumo sustentável e sacolas biodegradáveis: educação ambiental e estudo sobre degradação

Abstract

Conventional plastic bags, derived from synthetic polymers of fossil origin, are durable and low-cost but contribute to waste accumulation and environmental pollution. Biodegradable bags, made from materials that decompose through microbial action, emerge as a more sustainable alternative, although their effectiveness depends on proper disposal and degradation conditions. This study evaluated sustainable consumption practices and the degradation of plastic bags labeled as “biodegradable.” Misleading green marketing, known as greenwashing, consists of applying the “biodegradable” label without evidence of actual biodegradability, influencing consumer choices. An environmental education activity was conducted at the EcoVárzea Agroecological Fair, on the UFPB Campus I, involving leaflet distribution and a questionnaire with 20 participants. The results showed a high level of environmental awareness, with understanding of the differences between conventional and biodegradable plastics and the importance of ecobags. However, only 40% of respondents reported always bringing their own ecobag, revealing a gap between knowledge and practice. The educational action was well received, indicating that awareness initiatives can promote more sustainable habits. Conventional and biodegradable bags were subjected to simulated photodegradation for 12 days, followed by ATR-FTIR spectral analysis. The results showed no significant changes in the characteristic polyethylene bands, suggesting low degradation efficiency of biodegradable bags in the short term. Literature review reinforced these findings, indicating that many so-called biodegradable products contain common polymers with pro-oxidant additives, and that current technical standards do not adequately address all disposal environments, especially the deep sea. In summary, this study highlights the need for stricter regulations, further research on actual biodegradability, and encouragement of reusable alternatives to reduce environmental impacts.