Are climate change perceptions related with plastic policy support? Effects of climate change skepticism, guilt, and efficacy on the acceptance of the plastic tax

PLOS One | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0337327 December 29, 2025 12 / 30 The second statement about the plastic tax (“I am in favor of taxing plastic users as long as the taxes are reinvested in environmental improvements to reduce plastic use”) was analyzed under the condition that the revenue would be used for environmental purposes. Overall, 54.9% of the respondents were in favor, while 12.1% were opposed. Compared with Fig 1, the percent- age of favorable responses increased by 3.6%, neutral responses decreased by 2.7%, and opposing responses slightly decreased by 0.9%. Although these differences are relatively small, the consistently high proportion of neutral responses(33.1%) suggests a lack of strong consensus regarding the plastic tax, even when its environmental benefits are emphasized (Fig 2). To analyze the differences in plastic tax preferences according to demographic variables, we conducted a mean analysis. Fig 3 shows the results of the analysis. The average of the scores for the two questions measuring plastic tax was estimated. First, the sex-based difference showed that women had more positive attitude toward the plastic tax than men, reflecting women’s greater sensitivity to environmental issues [104,105]. However, this difference between groups is not Table 1. Measurement questions and reliability analysis results. Measurement Concepts Statements Cronbach α scale Willingness to pay plastic tax I favor the idea of taxing plastic users more to reduce plastic use. .635 5

I am in favor of taxing plastic users to reduce plastic use, provided that the taxes are reinvested in environmental improvements. Value Factors Environmentalism I think a lot about the damage we do to the environment. .761 5 I often worry about the effects of pollution on me and my family. Altruism Peaceful world: life without war and conflict .837 7 Social justice: correcting injustice, helping the weak Helping: working for the well-being of others Egalitarianism We need systemic reforms to share wealth equitably.. .761 5 Many of our problems would be solved if our society were more equal. Economic materialism Economic development should be prioritized over conservation. .820 5 Economic development should come first, followed by environmental protection. Risk Perception Paradigm Perceived risk Climate change is a very serious problem that cannot be compared to any other risk. .798 5 The changes caused by climate change will cause a lot of damage to me and my family. Knowledge I am familiar with government policies to address climate change. .744 5 I am more knowledgeable than others about climate change issues. Government trust The government’s goals to address climate change will be successful.. .794 5 The government’s goals to address climate change are achievable. I believe the government is doing a good job in addressing climate change. Emotions I have negative thoughts about climate change. .726 5 The picture of our future under climate change is very dark. Environmental Psychology Climate change skepticism

The problem of climate change has been exaggerated. .891 5 The damage caused by climate change is exaggerated. Guilt I regret not doing more to prevent climate change. .756 5 I feel guilty for not taking action to address climate change.. Efficacy Climate change is solvable depending on what I do. .840 5 I can solve the climate change problem if I try. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0337327.t001