Exploring the motivations behind environmental volunteering and the development of environmental citizenship in Taiwan

Abstract

The act of volunteering for environmental causes is a multifaceted phenomenon that offers dual benefits: it not only fosters individual health and well-being but also instills and reinforces pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors, essential for the conservation and protection of our planet. The trend of civic participation in such volunteer activities has seen a notable upsurge in Taiwan, signaling a positive shift towards environmental consciousness.To capture the essence of this shift and to ensure the sustainability of these voluntary acts, it is imperative to unravel the motivations that drive individuals to consistently dedicate their time and effort to environmental management. This study casts a comprehensive net over the motivations and barriers influencing environmental volunteers in Taipei City. Employing a robust mixed-methods approach, it synthesizes data from 1081 surveyed participants and insights from 10 in-depth interviews. The research meticulously examines how environmental volunteerism correlates the attitudes towards environmental protection and the cultivation of environmental citizenship.The insights gleaned are poised to serve as a strategic compass for policymakers and environmental custodians, equipping them to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of organizations dedicated to the cause of environmental sustainability. The implications of this research extend beyond immediate organizational benefits, as it lays the groundwork for a more engaged and environmentally responsible society.