Pro-Environmental Behaviors in Higher Education: A Contextualized Planned Behavior Perspective

Abstract

Background:: Institutions of higher learning are critical avenues for addressing issues pertaining to climate stability and environmental sustainability. College students, as future leaders, can play a crucial role in solving the planet’s most pressing problems if they have the right information and a behavioral orientation that promotes positive environmental outcomes Objectives:: The current study evaluates pro-environmental behaviors potentially moderated by knowledge, attitudes, motivations, and contextual factors for college students. It also evaluates what categories of environmentally friendly behaviors students elect to engage in. Methods:: Quantitative data were collected using an online questionnaire survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results:: Findings show a weaker influence by most stand-alone factors but a stronger cumulative effect when all the variables are considered together. Data also indicates student’s inclinations to certain environment-friendly behaviors more than others. Conclusion:: Study findings could be used to change university sustainability policies and curricula to enhance environmental consciousness and inspire participation in green initiatives among students. The study contributes to existing literature on sustainability in higher education institutions in the United States.