A Study on the Transformation Process of Single-Use Plastic to Green in Chennai City

Single-use plastics (SUPs)—including carry bags, disposable cups, cutlery, and packaging materials—have become deeply embedded in the daily lives of consumers due to their low cost, convenience, and widespread availability. However, increasing environmental concerns over plastic waste accumulation, marine pollution, and urban sanitation challenges have intensified the demand for a transition towards greener alternatives in urban Indian cities. This study examines the transformation process from single-use plastics to eco-friendly alternatives in Chennai City, focusing on consumer awareness, behavioural patterns, institutional support, and barriers to adoption. The research adopts a descriptive and quantitative research design, collecting primary data from 300 respondents through structured questionnaires across different zones of Chennai, including households, small retailers, food vendors, and service outlets. Secondary data were gathered from government reports, policy documents, environmental studies, and prior research on plastic waste management. The study employs statistical tools such as percentage analysis, chi-square tests, and SPSS software to analyse the relationship between demographic factors, awareness levels, and consumer preferences for green alternatives. Findings reveal that while a majority of respondents are aware of the harmful environmental effects of single-use plastics, actual adoption of eco-friendly alternatives remains inconsistent due to factors such as higher cost, limited availability, lack of convenience, and inadequate awareness of sustainable substitutes. The study highlights that younger respondents and educated consumers demonstrate relatively higher support for government bans on plastics and are more willing to adopt reusable products. However, low-income groups and informal sector businesses continue to rely heavily on disposable plastics for affordability and operational ease. The research further identifies gaps in policy implementation, insufficient waste segregation infrastructure, and limited enforcement of plastic ban regulations. The study concludes that successful transformation from SUPs to green alternatives in Chennai requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving stronger public awareness campaigns, affordable eco-friendly products, incentives for sustainable businesses, improved recycling infrastructure, and stricter government regulations. The findings contribute to understanding urban sustainability transitions and provide policy recommendations for reducing plastic dependency and promoting environmentally responsible consumer behaviour in metropolitan cities.