Could more use of social media have influence on people’s behaviours? 

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In today’s fast-paced and high-tech society, almost everyone is on social media. In my everyday’s experience and interaction with the social media, I often find myself receiving flash news quicker by the ‘word of mouth’ than it is reported or broadcasted on the NewsPapers or Television. The ‘word of mouth’ here though, is the dissemination and ‘sharing’ of news and information through the use of social media platforms.

Therefore, in my opinion, I feel that the government agencies or Zero Waste SG organization could increase the use of social media to promote and encourage the public to reduce their consumption and waste, while increasing the recycling behaviours. Additionally, research results have supported that environmental learning may be a life-long activity, influenced by the media.

Along with the use of social media platforms, organizations could consider using popular and credible spokespeople to advocate for certain behavior change or relay messages. The spokespeople who are engaged could be credible because they are attractive, an expert or high in social status. Also, they have to be familiar to the audience members, so it increases reliability, while being relatable and trustworthy when delivering important messages.