Analysis of the factors influencing the environmental impact of plastic packages.

Packaging is the activities of designing and producing the container or wrapper for a product. Packages, well designed can create convenience value and promotional value for the consumer and the manufacturer respectively. Taking into considerations the other functions it performs in attracting and satisfying customers, manufacturers must pay attention to the growing environmental and safety concerns about packaging. Plastic packages waste are very difficult and hazardous to dispose and that is why in this study interest is casted on impact of plastic packages on environment in Tanzania. The main objective of this study was to identify and analyse factors, which influence the environmental impact of plastic packages. It also intended to provide suggestions of what can be done to minimize the plastic wastes generation rate and viable logistics of their disposal. The literature review, developed the conceptual framework of the study, which shows the three variables: environment legislation, plastic packages and stakeholders' behavior that influence the environmental impact. Moreover three hypotheses formulated based on the literature review and the conceptual framework. Data collected from the field were subjected to statistical tests using a special computer package known as SPSS. Chi-square test was used to test hypotheses one and three whereas hypothesis two was tested qualitatively. It was found that reinforced (rewarded) stakeholders behaviour has significant influence on environment impact; awareness of the existing environment legislation and its enforcement have significance influence on environment impact and poor disposal of plastic packages causes negative environ impact. In general sample results reveals that there is a lacuna in law between law and practice on packaging using plastic materials. Based on the research findings managerial implication and conclusion is made.