Environmental Consciousness Research Articles

The understanding of the agriculturally shaped environment: from the theoretical construct to an applied indicator of sustainable development

Sustainable development of the resource ‘land’ is increasingly being discussed with a focus on rural areas. Understanding is key to solving land use conflicts. It can lead to joint solutions and can thus enable sustainable development at a practical level. It goes beyond environmental consciousness, which is related to general issues, and instead aims to address concrete challenges in the context of sustainable development at an applicable level. ‘Understanding’ with regard to land use conflicts has not yet been defined in the literature. Based on this motivation, it is the aim of this study to create the construct of ‘understanding’ conceptually, to validate it empirically with structural equation modelling, and to demonstrate that understanding might be an important prerequisite for sustainable development. In this case, the focus is not on a general kind of understanding, but rather on specific aspects of understanding in relation to the agriculturally shaped environment in rural areas. The empirical data for the paper were collected by means of a large-scale population survey in Western Pomerania, Germany, a rural peripheral region characterized by typical land-use conflicts in predominantly rural areas. A tripartite division of the construct into cognitive, emotional, and opinion levels was derived theoretically. The construct is supported empirically and that it can be applied as an SDG indicator. Thus, the refined construct of understanding the agriculturally shaped environment can make a substantial contribution towards closing the knowledge/attitude-behavior gap.

Understanding Green Consumption Behaviors in an Emerging Market: The Influence of Environmental Concern, Health Consciousness, and Product Availability in Vietnam

Understanding Green Consumption Behaviors in an Emerging Market: The Influence of Environmental Concern, Health Consciousness, and Product Availability in Vietnam

Solid waste management awareness and practices in coastal communities

Effective solid waste management (SWM) is paramount for environmental sustainability and public health, particularly in coastal communities. This cross-sectional descriptive study determines SWM awareness and practices among 399 households in selected coastal barangays in the City of Mati, Davao Oriental, Philippines. Employing a structured four-point Likert-type survey through KoboCollect applications, this study evaluates SWM awareness and practices while examining the impact of socio-demographic factors on these aspects. The results reveal moderate SWM awareness (X̄=2.55) and practices (X̄=2.66) in these coastal communities, indicating a baseline level of environmental consciousness and waste management efforts. However, there was lack of familiarity with legal and regulatory frameworks (X̄=1.97), including the Republic Act 9003 and local ordinances related to SWM. Notable gaps are also identified in SWM practices, mainly in waste segregation (X̄ = 2.55) and avoidance to waste-burning (X̄=2.56). Socio-demographic factors, such as age, educational attainment, household size, and family income, significantly influence SWM awareness and practices. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational campaigns and community engagement strategies to enhance awareness of SWM regulations. Addressing these gaps is necessary for developing effective interventions to promote sustainable waste management practices in these coastal areas, thus protecting marine ecosystems and supporting the well-being of local communities.

Effects of managers' environmental consciousness and digital expertise on their technology adoption intentions

Environmental consciousness and digital competence are sought-after characteristics of managers by many organisations today. The digital expertise of organisations is considered a critical capability that drives their digitalisation strategies. Also, values and beliefs towards environmental sustainability influence their attitudes towards achieving environmental performance. By integrating the three 'big' adoption theories of DoI, TAM and UTAUT, along with decision-making literature, this study empirically investigates the effects of the digital expertise and environmental consciousness of managers on their intention to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. We used an online survey with 172 managers from Australian firms using the PLS-SEM method for data analysis. The results show that managers’ environmental consciousness and digital expertise significantly and positively affect their intention to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. Their perceived usefulness of technologies partially mediates the relationships between digital expertise and intention to adopt and between environmental consciousness and intention to adopt. The mediation roles of perceived ease of use, perceived visibility and social influence were not empirically confirmed. Integrating adoption theories with domain-specific knowledge-based decision-making is a novel theoretical approach adopted in the study. The key contribution is to the Industry 4.0 technology adoption literature by empirically confirming the effects of domain-specific knowledge expertise and environmental consciousness on the intention to adopt. Its practical implications lie in the confirmation that organisations benefit from their investment in the digital skill development of managers and environmentally conscious managers.

A környezettudatos gondolkodás és magatartás vizsgálata a Pécsi járásban = The Examination of the Environmentally Conscious Thinking and Behavior in the District of Pécs

Environmentally conscious thinking and the knowledge and attitude of society towards sustainability have a big impact on the practicability of the sustainability of socio-economic processes. The overarching goal of the present research is to analyze the environmental awareness of the Pécs District. The foundation of the primer research was a questionnaire survey. The present study, moreover, is founded on the databases of the Hungarian Central Statistical Office. According to the survey, in the dimension of transport, the car is the most popular vehicle to use; in terms of shopping, people have an environmentally conscious attitude; and on average, the subjects reported they were likely to take part in selective waste collection. The results of the present survey contribute to the exploration of the environmentally conscious behavior of the population of a micro-region, therefore are useful for all those who are interested in or support developing environmental consciousness.

The Impact Of Consumer Environmental Consciousness On Hotel Consumption Intention: A Case Study Of Democratic Republic Of Congo Consumers

The rising interest in "green" hotels is indicative of a broader trend toward eco-consciousness in the hospitality sector. Environmental concerns are currently capturing the interest of Congo's academics, businesses, and governments. Sustainable development is seen to necessitate this. The study looked at how buyers' beliefs, realistic objectives, money, and the hotel's responsibility affected their propensity to spend more for eco-friendly hotels. The purpose of this research was to identify the factors (such as consumer awareness, environmental control policies, and consumer behavior and preferences) that affect the amount that guests are prepared to pay for environmentally friendly hotel rooms. The investigation, which took place in the DRC, used a quantitative approach by analyzing data obtained from 700 hotel visitors using regression analysis. This study contributes to the literature on sustainable tourism by shedding light on the variables that influence financial backing for environmentally conscious hotel projects. It also lays the groundwork for further research, especially in understudied areas like the DRC. There was a strong correlation between environmental consciousness and the results showing that consumers' perceptions of their own efficacy significantly impacted their norms and intentions to do positively. There was a negative moderating effect of perceived price, an external cost, on the link between consumers' behavioral intentions and their personal norms

Exploring the Potential Synergy Between Disruptive Technology and Historical/Cultural Heritage in Thailand's Tourism Industry for Achieving Sustainable Development in the Future

ABSTRACTWhile disruptive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mobile apps hold promise for enriching visitor experiences in heritage tourism, their integration necessitates a nuanced approach to ensure the sustainable development of the sector. This study addresses a critical gap in existing research by exploring this specific synergy within Thailand's unique tourism landscape. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study synthesizes existing knowledge on technology integration in heritage tourism, identifying both potential benefits (AR enhancing historical sites) and risks (overreliance on VR and social media's negative impacts). To bridge this gap and navigate these complexities, the research proposes a set of recommendations for a collaborative and sustainable approach. These recommendations prioritize community engagement, environmental consciousness, ongoing research, and collaborative governance. Additionally, they emphasize preserving the authenticity of heritage sites, ensuring technology serves as a tool for cultural preservation, not exploitation. By adopting these recommendations, stakeholders can leverage technology to create a thriving and sustainable heritage tourism sector in Thailand. This ensures both the safeguarding of the nation's rich cultural heritage for future generations and the creation of innovative and enriching experiences for visitors.

Exploring consumer’s sharing-economy green innovation adoption behavior: the GoShare example in Taiwan

<p>GoShare is an innovative green e-scooter rental service that has gained popularity in Taiwan. Its innovativeness lies in its being an electric green innovation and a widely available scooter rental service. To study consumers’ motivation to adopt an innovation with duality in nature-being a product and service innovation simultaneously. We utilized a two-stage research process: interviews first and followed by an online questionnaire survey effort. Building upon the learning from the interviews, we examined how potential adopters’ (1) environmental consciousness, (2) perceived innovation characteristics, (3) self-image related to the service, and (4) the perceived complementarity of the innovation in question impacts their adoption behavior. Logistic regression analyses were to present the findings. We found mixed support for our hypothesizes developed.</p> <p> </p>

Impact of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) on Employee Eco-Friendly Behavior and Environmental Performance of Hospitality Industry with Mediating Role of Environmental Consciousness

Impact of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) on Employee Eco-Friendly Behavior and Environmental Performance of Hospitality Industry with Mediating Role of Environmental Consciousness

Investigating the Relationship between Green Loyalty and Green Behavior on Green Purchase Decisions with the Moderating Effect of Environmental Concerns

The research investigates the effect of Green Loyalty and Green Behaviors on Green purchasing choices, emphasizing the moderating influence of environmental consciousness among consumers of environmentally-friendly fashion, encompassing garments, accessories, and footwear. This complex association was carefully assessed in this study using a survey approach entailing a 16- item questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale. More specifically, the selected sample involved customers who belong to the Southern Punjab region. The empirical results further pointed out the importance of both the constructs of green loyalty and green behaviors in making green purchases; however, the environmental concern failed to become an important moderating factor in this regard. By grounding the study in the present environmental context, the research underscores the relevance of green products for present-day business while emphasizing that marketers have to manage two key factors: customer loyalty and behaviors to encourage green buying. This research effort is unique in its attempt to examine green loyalty in relation to green behavior and green buying behavior with special reference to the moderating role of environmental concern.

Promoting Scientific Literacy by Teaching in Primary Education the Issue of "Biomass for Biodiesel"

In exploring the integration of biomass education into the primary education curriculum for biodiesel production, the purpose of this study is twofold. Firstly, it aims to highlight the importance of incorporating renewable energy concepts into early education to foster environmental consciousness and sustainability practices from a young age. By teaching students about the potential of using biomass for biodiesel, they can develop an understanding of alternative energy sources and their impact on reducing carbon emissions. Secondly, this study provides practical insights into how educators, as the key players, can effectively implement biomass topics in primary school classrooms. The provision of strategies, resources, and lesson ideas empowers educators, making them feel capable and confident in their role. This ultimately equips students to address the challenges of a changing world. Through this dual purpose, the study not only empowers educators but also contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on sustainable education practices in primary schools, making them feel part of a larger, impactful movement.

Investigating Ecocinema through the Video Essay

How can the video essay be deployed as a critical tool to analyse ecocinema and its relevance to the current environmental crisis? The Video Essay for Ecocinema course, held in the 2023 spring semester at the Academy of Architecture in Mendrisio, introduced videographic techniques to investigate the topic of ecocinema and critically analyse ecological imaginaries. A heterogeneous bibliography of texts, films and video essays related to ecocinema presented key thematic concepts, including: visualizations of ecological scale(s); the role of affect in producing environmental consciousness; materialising intangible infrastructures and hidden “grey energies”; and the digital footprint of film and media industries. These concepts in turn served as the basis for a distinct series of videographic exercises that prepared students for their final videographic project. The results demonstrate the profound value of the video essay as a pedagogical practice that can provide students with the tools to address such a challenging and multifaceted topic as the global environmental crisis.

Exploring the Recycling Behavior and Climate Change Mitigation in Booming Countries: A Path to Cleaner Seas and Sustainable Futures- A Case of UAE

The expansion of the global population, technological progress, economic growth, and rapid urbanization have induced substantial shifts in lifestyle choices, reshaping consumption patterns. This research aimed to investigate the interrelation between recycling practices in rapidly developing nations, notably China, Brazil, Turkey, Vietnam, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while emphasizing the role of the UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi, in mitigating climate change and addressing marine pollution. Furthermore, the study ascertain the significance of recycling practices, specifically concerning plastic and e-waste in the UAE, in contributing to environmental sustainability and promoting cleaner oceans. This endeavor ultimately aimed for more sustainable and conscientious development pathways. The research methodology was founded on established theoretical and conceptual framework developed through an in-depth analysis of variables rooted in the theory of planned behavior. Following the successful collection of data on recycling behaviors related to plastic and e-waste in Abu Dhabi, the data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings from the correlation analysis conducted showed complex correlations between recycling behavior and environmental factors. The positive connections found between “comparing recycling practice” and a favorable “future development pathway,” suggested active recycling involvement and good future perspectives. Similarly, positive correlation between “reducing marine pollution” and “environmental sustainability,” demonstrated a shared environmental conscience. However, a negative link was found between “mitigating climate change” and “reducing marine pollution”, “recycling behavior, showing that respondents with higher priority on mitigating climate change also not in favour to recycle and prioritize for reducing marine pollution.

Influence of Hotel Design on Guest Experience and Satisfaction in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of hotel design on guest experience and satisfaction in Kenya. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low-cost advantage as compared to field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that aesthetic appeal, functionality, and comfort of hotel interiors significantly contribute to guest satisfaction. Elements such as room layout, furniture design, lighting, and color schemes can create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, enhancing the perceived quality of the stay. Additionally, common areas like lobbies, restaurants, and recreational facilities also impact guests' first impressions and ongoing experiences. The design must cater to diverse guest needs, offering both communal and private spaces that facilitate social interactions and personal relaxation. Moreover, incorporating local culture and unique design elements can provide a memorable and authentic experience, further boosting guest satisfaction. Sustainable and eco-friendly design practices are increasingly valued by guests, reflecting their growing environmental consciousness. Overall, a well-thought-out hotel design can significantly enhance guest experience, leading to higher satisfaction, repeat visits, and positive reviews, which are vital for the hotel's success in a competitive market. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Environmental psychology theory, services cape theory and expectancy-disconfirmation theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of hotel design on guest experience and satisfaction in Kenya. Hotels should prioritize investing in visually appealing and unique design elements, especially in common areas like lobbies. Policymakers should encourage and incentivize sustainable design practices in the hospitality industry.

Eco? No, Ego-scooters: Steering towards time-saving trails in urban mobility

As cities worldwide face escalating urban congestion and environmental challenges, electric scooters (e-scooters) emerge as a sustainable micromobility solution. This study investigates e-scooter adoption in Türkiye, an emerging economy, to delineate how motivations in such contexts diverge from those in advanced economies. Through a survey of 204 e-scooter users, we dissect the motivations driving both the adoption and continued use of e-scooters, focusing on the interplay between environmental consciousness and practical benefits. Unlike assumptions that might be drawn from advanced economies, our findings indicate that environmental motivations, though significant in global sustainable mobility discourse, do not serve as primary incentives for e-scooter adoption in Türkiye. The research reveals a pronounced preference for immediate, tangible benefits over environmental considerations, suggesting a distinct set of priorities in emerging economies. This insight challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to promoting micromobility and underscores the need for urban mobility policies and strategies to resonate with the specific preferences and daily realities of users in different economic contexts. By highlighting the crucial role of practical advantages in fostering micromobility adoption and sustained use in emerging economies, the study advocates for a tailored approach to advancing sustainable urban mobility.

Wujud Pelestarian Lingkungan Melalui Penyuluhan Pembuatan Produk Totebag Ecoprint pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar Negeri Kedung Peluk 1

Environmental education has become increasingly important in addressing global ecological challenges. This community service project aimed to cultivate environmental consciousness among elementary school students through the creative technique of ecoprinting. By using natural materials like leaves and flowers to create unique patterns on fabric, students were not only introduced to an artistic process but also gained a deeper appreciation for the natural world. A workshop was conducted at SDN Kedungpeluk 1 Candi Sidoarjo to teach students the basics of ecoprinting. Participants collected natural materials from their surroundings and experimented with various techniques to create personalized tote bags. The results were impressive, showcasing the students' creativity and their ability to transform natural elements into beautiful and functional objects. Beyond the artistic aspect, the project successfully fostered a sense of environmental stewardship among the students.

Sustainable and responsible investment (SRI) Sukuk: lessons from Khazanah’s Sukuk Ihsan

Purpose SRI Sukuk, with its outcome-based emphasis, aims to align the Islamic finance industry with its original ideals and address criticisms related to form over substance. In Malaysia, while the pioneering Sukuk Ihsan was a “social” sukuk, recent SRI Sukuk issuances have predominantly been “green” or “sustainable” sukuk. This paper aims to evaluate the Malaysian SRI Sukuk market, identifying factors favouring “green” sukuk. It also examines whether structural issues in Sukuk Ihsan deterred subsequent issuers from “social” sukuk. The emergence of SRI Sukuk responds to sustainable development goals and the shift towards a low-carbon economy. Sukuk Ihsan, as the first Shariah-compliant pay-for-success structure, poses complexity and risk management challenges to meet performance criteria. Design/methodology/approach The study used a qualitative method in the form of a critical review of literature, interview sessions with experts and stakeholders who are familiar with SRI Sukuk and Sukuk Ihsan and a case study analysis of Sukuk Ihsan. Findings The popularity of “green” sukuk reflects the growing global environmental consciousness. The main factors driving the popularity of “green” sukuk are the maturity of the market and the existence of a strong supporting infrastructure for “green” issuances while the positive profiling benefits and availability of incentives for “green” issuances also contribute to a lesser extent. The recommendations include the promotion of “social” sukuk by regulators through a focus on establishing a similar supporting infrastructure for “social” sukuk as there are for SRI and standard Sukuk. In addition, issuers of “social” sukuk may want to reconsider the inclusion of key performance indicators (“KPI”) into the structure of future “social” sukuk issuances. Research limitations/implications Although all respondents considered Sukuk Ihsan to be a success, some potential areas of improvement were also noted. These include the structuring of future “social” sukuk issuances with a bigger discount to compensate for the additional risk being assumed by the investor; the need to be more careful in the KPI selection process; and one respondent even went so far as to suggest the possibility of totally removing the step-down feature of Sukuk Ihsan. Practical implications Industry implications of Sukuk Ihsan study include findings that require balancing disclosure and economics by providing additional disclosure requirements for SRI Sukuk that may pose risks without corresponding benefits for issuers. KPI selection and investor confidence should also be properly identified, as KPIs are essential for the pay-for-success model to work successfully. For sukuk holders, findings indicate that any approval for waivers during issuance can impact investor confidence negatively. Investor literacy and impact understanding should also be improved for social Sukuk success. Investors should understand the different risk exposures and evolving impact requirements vital for sustainable growth. Social implications The findings provide significant implications for social impact Sukuk issuance. They include providing a substantial case study for future social impact issuances, based on the pioneering impact of Sukuk Ihsan. Furthermore, Sukuk Ihsan’s unqualified success validates the feasibility of socially responsible sukuk. Despite its early introduction, both tranches being fully subscribed reflects robust investor interest. Stakeholders were also proud of their involvement in such an initiative, viewing it as a significant achievement in creating societal impact. Originality/value Although there have been several prior studies done on Sukuk Ihsan, the focus of those studies was on its structure and the novelty of its “step down” returns structure where investors would receive lower returns if certain key performance indicators (“KPIs”) are met by Yayasan AMIR in the execution of its Trust School Programme. Bearing in mind that the first Sukuk Ihsan has a June 2022 maturity date, and the results of its KPIs were announced in December 2021, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the only documented case study that comprehensively reviews Sukuk Ihsan and identifies lessons learned and/or opportunities for improvement for the benefit of potential SRI Sukuk issuers in the future.

Exploring the drivers of residents’ identification and green citizenship behavior in green cities: a multicountry study

PurposeThe fundamental mission of every green city is to harmonize urban living with environmental preservation. However, a critical challenge arises when the residents of such cities do not share the same level of environmental consciousness, potentially eroding the integrity of the green city’s brand identity. Hence, this study aims to explore the factors influencing residents’ identification with green city branding and assesses how this identification subsequently affects their green citizenship behaviors.Design/methodology/approachA survey of 1,217 residents from 15 green cities across six countries was conducted and analyzed using SPSS 28.0 for descriptive statistics and PLS-SEM for measurement and structural model analysis.FindingsThe results indicate that green city-self connection, green city distinctiveness and environmental benefits significantly impact GCRI, which, in turn, significantly influences green city protection, loyalty and advocacy behaviors. However, green city social and economic benefits did not affect resident identification.Practical implicationsThe results of this study provide valuable managerial insights for city brand managers, green city developers and governmental representatives. The study underscores the importance of considering residents as crucial internal stakeholders in the creation of a green city identity that effectively promotes sustainable urban living and an eco-friendly culture.Originality/valueThis study provides theoretical insights into the relationship between green identification and residents’ willingness and commitment to act as ambassadors and promote their city’s green values.

Spatial and temporal differentiation and its driving factors of air quality in the economic circle of Shandong Province during 2013–2020

As the negative repercussions of environmental devastation, such as air quality decline and air pollution, become more apparent, environmental consciousness is growing across the world, forcing nations to take steps to mitigate the damage. China pledged to achieve air quality improvement goal to combat global environment issue, yet the spatial-temporal differentiation and its driving factors of environment-meteorology-economic index for air quality are not fully analysed. To promote regional collaborative control of air pollution and achieve sustainable urban development, spatial and temporal different and its driving factors of air quality in Shandong Province during 2013–2020. Results revealed that concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), particulate matter 10 (PM10), and carbon monoxide (CO-95per) exhibited decreasing trend (SO2 concentrations decreasing 84 % and CO-95per concentrations decreasing 90 %). Air quality was improved from inland areas to coastal areas. Pollutant indicators of SO2, NO2, PM10, PM2.5, and CO-95per demonstrated significant positive correlation (P < 0.05). Air temperature and precipitation are significantly negatively correlated with concentrations of SO2, NO2, PM10, PM2.5, and CO-95per but significantly positively correlated with ozone (O3-8 h). SO2, NO2, PM2.5, PM10, CO-95per, and proportion of days with heavy pollution are strongly positively correlated with proportion of secondary industry but strongly negatively correlated with proportion of tertiary industry and volume of household waste. Except for O3-8 h, pollutant index of Provincial Capital Economic Circle (PCEC) and Southern Shandong Economic Circle (SSEC) has significant negative correlation (P < 0.05) with regional gross domestic product and investment in environmental protection; however, investment in environmental protection of Eastern Shandong Economic Circle (ESEC) has no significant correlation with air pollution index. There was significant negative correlation between vegetable sowing area and SSEC pollutant index. The relationship between pollution emission and investment in environmental protection has shifted from high pollution-low investment to low pollution-low investment in PCEC, ESEC and SSEC, and the inflection point was in 2020 for PCEC, 2019 for ESEC, and 2020 for SSEC. Those results provide empirical evidence and theoretical support for the improvement of regional air quality, aiming to achieve high-quality development. According to these findings, it has been found that meteorological elements, pollutant emission, socio-economic factors and agricultural data affect air quality. Those results could provide meaningful and significant supporting for synergistic regulation of diverse pollutants.

Sustainable Human Resource Management and Employees’ Performance: The Impact of National Culture

In an era of rapid globalization and increased environmental consciousness, organizations must align their business practices with sustainable development goals. The main objective of this study is to explore the impact of sustainable human resource management (SHRM) on employees’ performance, focusing on the mediating role of employee engagement and the moderating effect of national culture. To do so, data were collected from 1950 individuals across 26 countries. The results of a multilevel analysis show that SHRM positively affects performance, with employee engagement acting as a mediator. Furthermore, the effectiveness of SHRM practices is moderated by cultural tightness–looseness, indicating that SHRM practices are more effective in flexible and adaptive cultural environments. This study contributes to the literature by integrating institutional theory and the JD-R model, demonstrating that SHRM enhances performance through increased employee engagement and that cultural context significantly influences this relationship. The findings emphasize the need for a culturally sensitive approach to SHRM, suggesting that organizations should tailor their sustainable practices to align with the cultural norms of their operational environments. This research provides valuable theoretical insights into the mechanisms through which SHRM impacts performance and practical implications for HR professionals seeking to implement effective and sustainable HR practices globally.