Trends in Consumer Purchase Intention for Carbon-Footprint-Labeled Products in Korea

Climate change constitutes a significant environmental challenge, and carbon footprint labeling has emerged as a key policy instrument to promote low-carbon consumption. This study examines long-term trends in consumer purchase intention for carbon-footprint-labeled products in Korea, drawing on nationwide survey data collected over an 11-year period (2009–2019). The results demonstrate that environmental concern, perceived severity of climate change, understanding of the carbon footprint system, and exposure to low-carbon and green media are positively associated with purchase intention. Among these factors, perceived contribution to greenhouse gas reduction is identified as the most influential and consistent determinant over time. Importantly, the analysis focuses on purchase intention rather than actual purchasing behavior. Given the well-documented attitude–behavior gap in sustainable consumption, the findings should be interpreted as indicative of behavioral intention. By documenting long-term changes in consumer perceptions and intentions, this research provides insights into the impact of environmental information on consumer decision-making and offers policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of carbon labeling.