Pro-Environmental Behaviors and the Prioritization of Environmental Protection over Economic Growth

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of individuals' pro-environmental behaviors on their preference for either environmental protection or economic growth. The analysis utilizes the most recent wave of the World Values Survey (WVS), the 7th wave, which includes data from 66 economies. Logistic regression is employed for empirical analysis. The marginal effects of the model highlight the significant role of pro-environmental behavior and confidence in environmental movements in shaping individuals' preferences for environmental protection over economic growth. Whether active or inactive, memberships in environmental organizations positively influence the likelihood of prioritizing environmental protection by fostering awareness and alignment with sustainability values. Active members exhibit a stronger effect, reflecting the impact of deeper engagement in environmental activities. Similarly, confidence in environmental protection movements plays a crucial role in promoting pro-environmental attitudes, as individuals with greater confidence are more likely to trust and support collective efforts to address environmental challenges. The findings underscore the importance of fostering participation in environmental organizations and building trust in environmental movements to encourage sustainability-oriented decisions and attitudes at a societal level.