Theorizing the Behavioral Dimension.pdf (252.13 kB)
Theorizing the behavioral dimension of energy consumption: energy efficiency and the value-action gap
This chapter focuses on the well-documented misalignment between energy-related behaviors and the personal values of consumers, which has become a major source of angst among policymakers. Despite widespread pro-environmental or green attitudes, consumers frequently purchase non-green alternatives. The chapter identifies 50 theoretical approaches that can be divided almost equally into two types: those that emphasize beliefs, attitudes, and values; and those that also consider contextual factors and social norms. Three principles of intervention are recommended: provide credible and targeted information at points of decision; identify and address the key factors inhibiting and promoting the target behaviors in particular populations; and rigorously evaluate programs to provide credible estimates of impact and opportunities for improvement. The chapter recommends that research on the value-action gap be expanded beyond the traditional focus on individuals to include decision-making units such as households, boards of directors, commercial buying units, and government procurement groups.
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- Published
File Version
- Published version
Publisher
Oxford University PressPage range
201-222Pages
600.0Book title
Oxford handbook of energy and societyPlace of publication
New York, USAISBN
9780190633851Series
Oxford HandbooksDepartment affiliated with
- SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Editors
Matthias Gross, Debra J DavidsonLegacy Posted Date
2018-09-17First Open Access (FOA) Date
2020-07-01First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2018-09-17Usage metrics
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