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Pro-environmental attitude and behaviours: an investigation on the role of pro-sociality

Author

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  • Caterina Giannetti
  • Pietro Guarnieri
  • Tommaso Luzzati

Abstract

The multifaceted nature of contemporary environmental degradation requires an all-round policy approach, that cannot disregard the role of people's behaviour. To study how to promote environmentally friendly actions, this paper investigates whether pro-sociality triggers pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs). To this aim, we consider not only the direct effect that pro-sociality might have on PEBs but also the indirect effect transmitted through environmental concerns. After outlining a theoretical framework based on the literature on PEBs, we use a Eurobarometer survey to conduct a causal mediation analysis. Our results show that pro social attitudes are actually important, having also a strong indirect effect on PEBs. Furthermore, they suggest that policies promoting pro-social attitudes may be more effective than those simply promoting pro environmental attitudes.

Suggested Citation

  • Caterina Giannetti & Pietro Guarnieri & Tommaso Luzzati, 2021. "Pro-environmental attitude and behaviours: an investigation on the role of pro-sociality," Discussion Papers 2021/269, Dipartimento di Economia e Management (DEM), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
    • Handle: RePEc:pie:dsedps:2021/269
    Note: ISSN 2039-1854
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    Cited by:

    1. Bilancini, Ennio & Boncinelli, Leonardo & Di Paolo, Roberto, 2023. "Game-based education promotes practices supporting sustainable water use," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 208(C).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    IV-mediation analysis; environmental citizenship; PEBs; EU citizens;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C36 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • Q57 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Ecological Economics
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy

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