Work

Consumer Sustainability: Is Knowledge Linked to Behavior in Recycling?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Sustainable consumer behavior encompasses any action that benefits both the environment and society. Recycling is a prime example of such behavior. However, there's a lack of research examining the connection between knowledge about recycling and recycling behavior. The purpose of this study is to examine factors associated with consumer recycling behavior under the guidance of an extended theory of planned behavior with an emphasis on the role of recycling knowledge. With data collected from a national online survey in the U.S., results from the structure equation modeling show that ascription of responsibility to others is negatively, while social motivation and behavior skill are positively associated with recycling behavior. Also, both subjective and objective knowledge measures are positively associated with recycling behavior. In addition, subjective recycling knowledge moderates the relationships between attitude and recycling behavior, and between personal motivation and recycling behavior.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17041498

Authors: Jing Jian Xiao, Parisa Rafiee, Feihong Xia, Jing Wu

Institution: University of Rhode Island

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Education and Sustainability

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896