Exploring pro-environmental behavior in Azerbaijan: an extended value-belief-norm approach

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to explore pro-environmental behavior (PEB) in Azerbaijan. Therefore, the authors used value-belief-norm (VBN) theory, extended by the construct of social norms (SN), as a basis.Design/methodology/approachData were collected by establishing a link within various social media platforms. The final sample consisted of 407 respondents. The authors analyzed four dimensions of PEB using higher-order structural equations. The authors also examined both direct and (serial) indirect effects for cross-cultural validation of the extended VBN theory.FindingsThe authors were able to confirm the VBN theory in its entirety. However, SN, which are influential in collectivistic and Sunni-majority states, do not contribute significantly to explaining PEB in predominantly Shiite Azerbaijan.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors could not establish a direct effect of SN on PEB within this study. However, the authors observed an indirect “values-beliefs-norms-behavior” effect. The different (partly abbreviated) effect channels of the four tested value antecedents provide interesting insights for marketing research.Practical implicationsBased on the results, it seems crucial to make Muslim consumers aware of the negative outcomes of their consumption behavior and to emphasize individual responsibility. However, SN may not need to be addressed depending on cultural and/or religious values.Originality/valueThe authors examined PEB in Azerbaijan by testing the serial mediation effects in the VBN model. Further, the authors tested the influence of SN within the framework of the original VBN theory, contributing to a better understanding of the possibility of integrating components of the theory of planned behavior.