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Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 29 May 2025 | Viewed by 10068

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Stockton University, 101 Vera King Farris Dr, Atlantic City, NJ 08205, USA
Interests: wine sustainability; land conservation; ski resorts and climate change; environmental pedagogy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Consumers today are more aware of their impact on the environment when they make purchases. They are more educated than previous generations about environmental impact and have sustainable options available at the store or online. Customers choose to support (or not support) the environment and a sustainable future whenever they make purchases. Simultaneously, many companies are striving to improve their image and bottom line through sustainability initiatives. Their goal is to reduce environmental impact, help (or do less damage to) workers and communities, and ensure long-term economic output. This combination of consumer behavior and producer marketing has resulted in consumer behavior that is often pro-environmental and supports sustainability. This Special Issue seeks to understand and highlight a variety of industries, products, and mechanisms that lead consumers to specifically target sustainable products with their purchasing power.

Prof. Dr. Daniel Moscovici
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • consumer behavior
  • sustainable consumption
  • environmental knowledge
  • eco certification
  • sustainability

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

15 pages, 249 KiB  
Article
Integrating Sustainability and Cultural Sensitivity: Clustering Muslim Tourist Lifestyles in the Andaman Coastal Cluster, Thailand
by Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Pimlapas Pongsakornrungsilp, Thanapa Chouykaew, Hussen Niyomdecha, Suchart Chansamran and Yu He
Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9542; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219542 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 915
Abstract
This study explores the integration of sustainability and cultural sensitivity in clustering Muslim tourist lifestyles in the Andaman coastal region. The Muslim tourist demographic, representing a significant portion of the global population, prioritizes halal standards and Islamic attributes in their travel experiences. This [...] Read more.
This study explores the integration of sustainability and cultural sensitivity in clustering Muslim tourist lifestyles in the Andaman coastal region. The Muslim tourist demographic, representing a significant portion of the global population, prioritizes halal standards and Islamic attributes in their travel experiences. This research investigates the lifestyle patterns of Muslim tourists and their alignment with sustainable tourism principles, particularly in Thailand’s Andaman coastal area, known for its marine and beach tourism. A multi-method approach was employed, utilizing the AIO (Activities, Interests, and Opinions) framework for quantitative data collection through the surveys of 836 Muslim tourists, and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with local stakeholders. The study identified key lifestyle clusters: Mainstream Travelers, Experience Seekers, and Chillouts, each with specific preferences for halal services, prayer facilities, and eco-friendly accommodations. The findings underscore the importance of a tailored approach in promoting sustainable tourism that respects cultural values. Recommendations include enhancing halal-certified services, improving infrastructure for religious practices, and promoting eco-friendly tourism options. By aligning sustainability with cultural sensitivity, the Andaman coastal region can attract more Muslim tourists while preserving its environmental and cultural heritage. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism by emphasizing cultural sensitivity and provides practical guidelines for tourism stakeholders in the Andaman region to develop inclusive and sustainable tourism strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
30 pages, 3409 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Education on Consumers’ Eco-Friendly Shopping Habits towards Sustainable Purchases: Evidence from Indonesia and Taiwan
by Cheng-Wen Lee and Hsiu-Hua Hung
Sustainability 2024, 16(20), 8832; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16208832 - 12 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1903
Abstract
The use of disposable products has increased significantly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this surge has also exacerbated the problem of waste pollution and climate change. Although there has been some progress recently, there is still a great deal of work [...] Read more.
The use of disposable products has increased significantly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this surge has also exacerbated the problem of waste pollution and climate change. Although there has been some progress recently, there is still a great deal of work to be carried out to promote eco-friendly shopping habits to combat environmental pollution. Education plays a crucial role in encouraging consumers to adopt long-term environmentally friendly behaviors as part of their shopping habits. This study aims to investigate the impact of education on non-disposable product knowledge and eco-awareness, which in turn influences consumer attitudes and shapes eco-friendly concepts into their habits. In our study, we also explore the role of self-identity as a moderator in the correlation between pro-environmental attitudes and eco-friendly shopping habits. Furthermore, our research involves gathering data from participants in Taiwan and Indonesia, considering their diverse cultural backgrounds and economic statuses in the Asian region. With a sample size of 332 individuals (152 from Indonesia and 180 from Taiwan), we utilized quantitative methodology and electronic questionnaires to collect data from October to November 2023. By employing CB-structural equation modeling with SmartPLS 4, we have been able to discern the similarities and differences between Taiwanese and Indonesian consumers within the context of our research framework. Consequently, sustainable purchases promote awareness and encourage consumers to adopt more environmentally friendly habits, contributing to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
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11 pages, 518 KiB  
Article
Motivations behind Active Sport Tourists Participating in Natural and Cultural Landscapes
by Basagaitz Guereño-Omil, Patxi León-Guereño, Eunate Garro, Mateusz Rozmiarek, Ewa Malchrowicz-Mośko, Maciej Młodzik, Arkadiusz Włodarczyk and Bartłomiej Łuć
Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8673; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198673 - 8 Oct 2024
Viewed by 868
Abstract
Recreational running, both on roads and in mountains, is one of the most practiced physical activities worldwide, and so, the motivations behind participating have been quite extensively described in the literature. However, the cultural and environmental motivations behind these athletes traveling to other [...] Read more.
Recreational running, both on roads and in mountains, is one of the most practiced physical activities worldwide, and so, the motivations behind participating have been quite extensively described in the literature. However, the cultural and environmental motivations behind these athletes traveling to other countries or destinations to compete have not been properly addressed yet. The aim of this research is to analyze the motivations of sport tourists and to compare the motivations that cause mountain runners and city runners to compete. A cross-sectional study with a total of 244 athletes, divided into a group of city marathon runners (N = 118) and a group of mountain ultra-marathon runners (N = 126), was conducted. Athletes completed the Sports Tourism Motivation Scale (STMS), composed of 37 items and nine dimensions, through an online survey. Participants were asked questions related to their age, running experience, distance to events, numbers of nights in hotels and volunteering. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences in four out of the nine dimensions of the STMS between city and mountain runners’ motivations and, likewise, statistical differences were found in some dimensions of the scale related to participants’ sex, age, running experience, numbers of nights in a hotel, travel distance and volunteering. In conclusion, the reasons why runners participate in mountain and city running events are different; likewise, some sociodemographic variables should be taken into account when organizing such sporting events in a sustainable way, in order to provide organizers with the most suitable information and attract the most participants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
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15 pages, 385 KiB  
Article
Consumer Knowledge and Preferences for Organic and Sustainably Certified Wines: Lessons from the DACH Region—Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
by Albert Franz Stockl, Daniel Moscovici, Stephanie Tischler, Markus Walter Eitle and Claudia Dolezal
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4464; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114464 - 24 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1308
Abstract
The DACH geographic region comprises three countries in central Europe: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This study seeks to both understand the motivations for purchasing organic and sustainably certified wines in this region and identifies which type of consumer should be targeted for the [...] Read more.
The DACH geographic region comprises three countries in central Europe: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This study seeks to both understand the motivations for purchasing organic and sustainably certified wines in this region and identifies which type of consumer should be targeted for the continued growth of this wine sector. Our methodology includes an online questionnaire resulting in a sample size of 4553 respondents, evenly broken down by country. Our analysis includes simple statistics and more advanced statistical analysis of the dataset. Our results indicate that there is a correlation between wine knowledge, environmental awareness, and the likelihood of buying eco-certified wines. We find that those who are self-proclaimed wine experts have a higher willingness to pay for organic or sustainable certified wines. These customers are generally middle aged, most often male, live in multi-person households, have pursued some level of higher education, and many are self-employed. We believe this study captures the growing trend of organic and sustainable wine certifications. It also identifies who is already convinced and who will need more marketing/education before they are ready to buy organic or sustainable wine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
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22 pages, 826 KiB  
Article
Generational Differences in Sustainable Consumption Behavior among Chinese Residents: Implications Based on Perceptions of Sustainable Consumption and Lifestyle
by Jianfang Liang, Jingjun Li, Xuerong Cao and Zejun Zhang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 3976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16103976 - 9 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2087
Abstract
To deal with the challenges posed by generational differences in China’s sustainable consumption transition, this study’s pioneers using a mixed-methods approach with data mining and literature research to classify Chinese residents into four generations based on the sustainable consumption perspective. We developed a [...] Read more.
To deal with the challenges posed by generational differences in China’s sustainable consumption transition, this study’s pioneers using a mixed-methods approach with data mining and literature research to classify Chinese residents into four generations based on the sustainable consumption perspective. We developed a conceptual model of generational differences and conducted an empirical study using structured interviews with a multi-stage random sampling approach. The results highlight significant differences and distinct influencing mechanisms among the four generations regarding perceptions of sustainable consumption, lifestyle, and sustainable consumption behavior. Based on this, multi-generational differentiated green marketing strategies, green product development and green marketing practices, as well as consumer education systems and strategies for stakeholders including the government, enterprises, and society are proposed. The findings contribute to advancing theoretical perspectives in sustainable consumption research, serving as a valuable reference for sustainable consumption research worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
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23 pages, 953 KiB  
Article
Holistic Antecedent Analysis of Behavioral Intention among Green Consumers in the Philippines: A Sustainability Theory of the Planned Behavior Approach
by Shiela Mae C. Ilagan, Ardvin Kester S. Ong, Josephine D. German, Ma. Janice J. Gumasing and Kyla Marie P. Pabalan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 3894; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16103894 - 7 May 2024
Viewed by 2010
Abstract
Concerns over sustainability have recently drawn more attention in a post-COVID-19 environment, particularly from developing countries. This heightened global awareness of sustainability highlights the importance of comprehending consumer behavior in purchasing green products. This study utilized an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) [...] Read more.
Concerns over sustainability have recently drawn more attention in a post-COVID-19 environment, particularly from developing countries. This heightened global awareness of sustainability highlights the importance of comprehending consumer behavior in purchasing green products. This study utilized an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) called the sustainability theory of planned behavior (STPB) to holistically assess the behavioral intention among green consumers in a particular developing country: the Philippines. Convenience sampling was used with 500 participants, and 54 modified questions were distributed online. Different factors, such as perceived environmental concern, perceived economic concern, perceived authority support, subjective norm, attitude, perceived behavioral control, customer perceived value, and purchasing intention, were assessed concurrently through the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. Through this, it was discovered that all the STPB predictors were significant drivers affecting the consumers’ purchasing intention, with customer perceived value having the highest direct effect. Moreover, it was found that the relationship between perceived economic concern on subjective norms and perceived behavioral control was insignificant. Further implications and comparisons were made based on the results of the study. The study’s findings can be utilized to help policymakers and marketers devise strategies that will effectively encourage sustainability through targeted interventions and increased product awareness. The study has validated the integration of new constructs into the TPB, enhancing the predictive power of the proposed model for assessing the behavioral intention to purchase green products. Thus, the model construct can be applied and utilized to investigate other topics regarding sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pro-environmental and Sustainable Consumer Behavior)
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