Dimensions of Conservation

Abstract

Residential energy conservation is among the most efficient means of reducing emissions, yet behavior is lagging behind this potential, suggesting this is an area where psychology can contribute. Research suggests that conservation behaviors may cluster into distinct dimensions, and a greater understanding of these differences could improve intervention. This article explores this idea through systematic literature review and analysis of survey data. Content analysis of 28 articles showed strong support for two primary dimensions (curtailment and efficiency), with up to nine defining attributes. However, analysis also identified inconsistencies, leaving questions about their validity. Factor analysis of survey data identified two principal components along these dimensions; subsequent analyses revealed several differences in their predictors. Results provide support for a dimensional approach and suggest further research into underlying attributes. Although the curtailment versus efficiency dichotomy may be useful, it also has the potential to obscure high leverage maintenance behaviors, especially for renters.

The Personality Profiles of Early Adopters of Energy-Efficient Technology

“…Despite their potential to contribute to energy security, environmental sustainability and higher economic productivity without increasing energy input, the widespread adoption of energy efficiency measures in the residential building sector is lagging (Bardhan et al, 2014;Karlin et al, 2014).…”

“…Unlike pro-environmental habits, costly energy efficiency improvements are rare decisions that allow to decrease energy usage without necessarily reducing the output service (Karlin et al, 2014;Pérez-Lombard et al, 2013). To fill this knowledge gap, this study centres on 6 the role of personality traits in energy efficiency investments in the domestic building sector, which may reveal fresh insights for the relatively slow diffusion of energy-efficient technologies in this realm.…”

Understanding the Human Factor of the Energy Transition: Mechanisms Underlying Energy-Relevant Decisions and Behaviors

“…Many studies in Switzerland and internationally that take a social-scientific perspective on energy saving differentiate between curtailment behaviors and efficiency decisions Karlin et al, 2012). As the topic of this study is energy sufficiency, we focus on the former aspect.…”

Personalized Energy Priorities: A User-Centric Application for Energy Advice

“…Data collection began by compiling a list of energy efficient or pro-environmental behaviours and their attributes mentioned in key known academic literature [3,4,5,18,19,20]. Further actions and attributes were identified via forward citations from these articles and keyword searches in academic databases (e.g.…”