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Social Cognitive Theory and Reciprocal Relationship: A Guide to Single-Use Plastic Education for Policymakers, Business Leaders and Consumers

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  • Sarah Fischbach

    (Communication Division, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA 90263, USA)

  • Brielle Yauney

    (Communication Division, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA 90263, USA)

Abstract

Single-use plastic waste has become a growing concern in daily life. Community leaders are implementing programs to reduce the use of single-use plastic and change consumer behavior. This study, using the social cognitive theory framework for sustainable consumption, examines the reciprocal relationship among the following three factors: personal (green consumer values), environmental (bans and rebate/reward programs), and behavioral (consumer decision-making related to single-use plastic waste). The study surveyed consumers (N = 330) across the United States who watched a video on the effects of single-use plastic waste on health and well-being. The results indicate that states with bans or rebate/reward programs tend to have higher green consumer values and consumers in those states report less use of single-use plastic waste. Education level also has a significant impact on green consumer values and plastic waste usage. The study provides a resource guide for decision makers to implement programs in five areas: (1) Business Resources, (2) Public Policy Resources, (3) Non-Profit Resources, (4) Education Resources, and (5) Personal Resources. The study also suggests potential areas for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Sarah Fischbach & Brielle Yauney, 2023. "Social Cognitive Theory and Reciprocal Relationship: A Guide to Single-Use Plastic Education for Policymakers, Business Leaders and Consumers," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-14, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:5:p:3946-:d:1076140
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Xinyuan Zhang & Emmanuel Nketiah & Victor Shi & Jinfu Cheng, 2023. "Who Will Save Energy? An Extension of Social Cognitive Theory with Place Attachment to Understand Residents’ Energy-Saving Behaviors," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(1), pages 1-21, December.
    2. Ju Yeon Shin & Eojina Kim & Yoon Jung Jang & Manisha Singal, 2024. "Mindful Choices: Unveiling the Driving Factors behind Consumers’ Intention to Reduce Single-Use Plastic Utensils," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-20, January.

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