Abstract

Concerns among academics and practitioners regarding overconsumption of natural resources and consumer goods suggest the need to reduce consumption levels among the general public. To do so, sustainable living educators need to understand existing perceptions of different audiences concerning sustainability and related terminology. One such audience includes non-environmentally motivated individuals, who may be less receptive to traditional appeals toward sustainable behavior than more environmentally motivated individuals. This analysis explored two research questions regarding non-environmentally motivated individuals: (1) What are their existing perceptions and understandings of sustainability-related terms? (2) How might those perceptions influence their interest in participating in sustainable living educational programming? Findings suggest varying levels of understanding and a persistence of environmental connotations associated with those terms. Findings also demonstrate widespread appeal of three-dimensional conceptualizations of the terms (i.e., economic, social, and environmental). Acknowledging existing perceptions within this target audience may allow sustainable living educators to tailor their programs accordingly.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call