Thesis (BS Agribusiness Economics) University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2024

Plastic waste issues persist in the Philippines, including in Davao City, despite policies aimed at reducing plastic use and transitioning to environmentally- friendly alternatives. Biodegradable plastic has emerged as a promising solution to these plastic waste problems. While most research has focused on consumers’ knowledge, perception, and practice and their impact on adoption of biodegradable plastic, there is a lack of literature examining retailers’ decisions to adopt such innovations. This study determined the willingness to adopt biodegradable plastic among small-scale vendors in Davao City, Philippines, considering the influence of knowledge, perception and practice. The study found that while vendors possess a high level of knowledge, which translates into a positive level of perception, their actual practices on environmental sustainability and biodegradable plastic remain low. Binary logit regression was used to identify the drivers influencing the willingness to adopt biodegradable plastic among vendors. In terms of sociodemographic variables, it was found that females, individuals from larger household size, and married individuals are less likely willing to adopt. Conversely, individuals with children are more likely willing to adopt. Moreover, if biodegradable plastic is perceived as available, vendors are more likely willing to adopt. Additionally, vendors selling fruits and vegetables and those located in Agdao Market are more likely willing to adopt. Among knowledge, perception, and practice, vendors with a positive perception on environmental sustainability and biodegradable plastic are more likely willing to adopt. Overall, bridging the gap between perception and practice requires enabling vendors to translate their beliefs in action. This can be achieved through the enforcement of policies related to sustainable practices and provisions of facilities that encourages these practices, including the use of biodegradable plastic.