Measurement of Acceptance of Waste-to-Energy (WtE): A United States Sample

Abstract

As Renewable Energy (RE) such as solar and wind power has become more heavily utilized as recognized energy sources over the last several years, general awareness of innovative forms of green energy production has increased. This paper reviews Waste-to-Energy (WtE), an innovative and emerging form of RE, in terms of acceptance by the public. This paper utilizes the Fishbein and Azjen (1975) Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and Leadership-Led Change Theory of Andrews, McConnell, and Westcott (2010) for the basis for examining variables that relate to acceptance of WtE. The present research examines to what extent individuals’ acceptance of WtE is predicted by attitudes regarding global warming, conventional energy use, U.S. energy production, government leadership change, trust in innovation, renewable energy knowledge, WtE knowledge, income, and net worth. All predictors except income showed statistically significant and positive correlations with acceptance of WtE. Multiple regression analysis revealed that four of these predictors had statistical significance and a positive relationship with WtE acceptance: knowledge of WtE, global warming and conventional energy beliefs, innovation trust, and net worth. Policy implication of this study is that education and marketing efforts should focus on increasing consumer knowledge of WtE as an innovative and trustworthy source of renewable energy.