Perception of environmental impacts of cosmetics and personal care products in Bindura · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Chemhuru, Juliet

Title

Perception of environmental impacts of cosmetics and personal care products in Bindura

Abstract

The research explores perceptions of environmental impact from cosmetics and personal care products among consumers, retailers, and beauty professionals in Bindura, Zimbabwe. The research employed a mixed methodology approach, using structured survey, focus group discussions, and interviews with standardized questionnaires administered to 200 purposively selected people of Bindura from urban areas of Chipadze, Chiwaridzo, Chipindura and Shashi view locations, peri- urban location of Chanaka and retailers in Bindura Central Business Centre. Case studies for eco-friendly cosmetic brands in Bindura were examined to identify the best possible ways of becoming sustainable as well as the biggest challenges they face in their businesses. Statistical package (SPSS) version 25 (IBM Corp., 2017) was used to assess structured survey questionnaire for quantitative data. Non parametric statistical tests such as chi-square test were applied to analyze associations between different variable in identifying the principle latent dimensions that influenced the attitudes and intentions to purchase personal care and cosmetics products with environmental impact. One-way ANOVA was used to test the differences between groups for continuous scores, such as degree of importance of the environment, and willingness to pay more for eco-friendly products.
The demographic analysis shows that females (65%) dominated the sample, reflecting their primary role as consumers of cosmetics and personal care products. Price is the most significant determinant with a high mean score of 4.30 and a low standard deviation of 0.94 indicating a broad consensus on the importance of affordability in purchasing eco-friendly products. Educational level played a significant role in shaping perceptions. The environmental impact of personal cosmetic use yielded a mean of 2.88, reinforcing the observation that while some individuals are environmentally conscious, many remain neutral or unconcerned. Collectively, the data underscore need for increased public education and awareness campaigns on the environmental impacts of cosmetics, particularly focusing on sustainability, packaging, and chemical use. The study therefore highlights the need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts to promote sustainable consumption and reduce environmental harm from cosmetics and personal care products in Bindura, Zimbabwe.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Cosmetics and personal care products

Supervisor

Mrs Mason