Work

Interrelationships among components of environmental literacy: A meta-analysis study of knowledge, attitudes, and behavior toward the environment over a decade

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Environmental literacy comprises knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, yet comprehensive evidence on the interrelationships among these components remains limited. This meta-analysis synthesized empirical evidence on the associations between knowledge and attitudes (K–A), knowledge and behavior (K–B), and attitudes and behavior (A–B) in environmental literacy research. Studies published between 2016 and 2025 were retrieved from Scopus (n = 620) and Web of Science (n = 450). Following the screening process, 39 studies met the inclusion criteria, yielding 47 K–A, 43 K–B, and 43 A–B effect-size estimates. Using random-effects models, the pooled correlations were positive and statistically significant across all three relationships. Based on operational categories derived from Cohen's conventional benchmarks, the K–A (r = 0.294) and K–B (r = 0.244) correlations were small in magnitude, whereas the A–B correlation (r = 0.460) was medium in magnitude and the strongest of the three relationships. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across all relationships, indicating considerable variation among studies. Moderator analysis showed that study region significantly moderated only the K–B relationship, while educational level/participant group did not significantly moderate any relationship. Sensitivity analyses indicated stable pooled estimates, although publication-bias results should be interpreted cautiously. These findings support the knowledge–behavior gap perspective and suggest that environmental literacy programs should strengthen attitudes and provide meaningful opportunities for pro-environmental action.

Source: Social Sciences & Humanities Open

DOI: 10.1016/j.ssaho.2026.103487