Environmental Volunteering Projects Management: A Multivariate Analysis of Volunteers’ Perspective on the Knowledge and Skills Gained, Their Involvement in Community Life and the Role of Environmental Monitoring Sensors

Abstract

The present study focuses on better understanding the benefits of environmental volunteering projects for volunteers and how the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they gain impact their future involvement in community life and in raising awareness towards environmental issues. Considering the recent technological developments and the applicability of sensors to monitor environmental quality, we also researched the impact of volunteering projects on the perception of volunteers regarding the role played by these sensors in providing valuable data, as well as to influence public decisions to have a healthier environment. The research methodology is based on the partial least squares structural equation modelling, the data being collected with a survey. The findings show a direct and positive influence on the skills gained by volunteers and their involvement in the community, as well as on their perception regarding the use of sensors to contribute to a cleaner environment. The results are useful to managers in schools, NGOs, public authorities, and businesses, who can collaborate to develop joint volunteering projects to tackle climate change and the pollution problem in the community.