Impact of banking digital transformation on plastic waste reduction in San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Abstract

This study examines the impact of banking digital transformation on plastic waste reduction in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, where plastic pollution poses significant environmental and public health challenges. With approximately 1,200 tons of solid waste generated daily 15% of which is Plastic the improper disposal of PVC bank cards (requiring 600 years to decompose) exacerbates ecological degradation. Our mixed-methods analysis reveals that digital payment adoption could prevent 5.85 tons of plastic waste by 2030 (20% reduction), with projections indicating 90% reduction potential through full digital transition. However, user surveys identify persistent cultural barriers: 54% of respondents prefer physical cards, primarily due to habit (68%), though 63% would transition given improved security (45%) and usability (32%). Comparative data show traditional banks generate 8.4 tons CO₂eq/year from card production versus 0.5 tons for digital-only banks. Statistical analysis (χ²=12.75, p=0.002) confirms the significant correlation between digital adoption and waste reduction, particularly among users under 35 (22% mobile wallet adoption). The findings align with global trends in China and Europe while highlighting Honduras' unique challenges: limited digital infrastructure, financial literacy gaps, and regulatory frameworks favoring physical verification. We conclude that systemic interventions including green banking policies, targeted financial education, and 4G/5G infrastructure expansión could position San Pedro Sula as a regional model for sustainable finance, contributing to SDGs 12 (Responsible Consumption) and 13 (Climate Action). This research provides empirical evidence for Central American policymakers to accelerate the shift toward circular economic models in the financial sector.