Main problem: Plastic pollution from single-use plastics causes threats to human health, biodiversity, and ecosystems worldwide. This study explores alternatives to plastic to reduce environmental pollution in Ust-Kamenogorsk (Oskemen), Kazakhstan. Methods: We used a mixed-methods approach: a survey (~150 respondents) to quantify daily plastic use, focus groups (5 students) to discuss usage patterns and alternatives, and semi-structured expert interviews (2 experts) to examine waste challenges. Results and their significance: The survey revealed that plastic packaging (bags) and bottles have the highest daily usage scores (around 3.8 and 3.2 on a 1–5 scale), whereas plastic toys scored lowest (~2.0). Most respondents expressed neutral or moderate satisfaction with plastic products. Focus group participants agreed that plastic is integral to food storage, packaging, and medicine, but suggested reusable bags, water fountains, and paper packaging as local alternatives. Interviewed experts cited plastic’s low cost and convenience as barriers to replacement, noted insufficient recycling infrastructure (only about 21.9 % of plastic waste is recycled in Kazakhstan), and advocated incentives such as government subsidies or bans. Overall, findings emphasize the importance of public education campaigns, improved recycling systems, and policies (e.g., bans on plastic bags and incentives) to shift consumer behavior towards sustainable alternatives. Such measures could significantly reduce plastic pollution and support environmental sustainability.