Using Web 2.0 and Social Media Technologies to Foster Proenvironmental Action

Abstract

Abstract:Research from a variety of disciplines suggests that online technologies (i.e., Web 2.0 and social media) have considerable potential for spurring proenvironmental action; however, relatively little work examines how to effectively capitalize on these communication and organization tools. This review paper describes the Technologies for Proenvironmental Action Model (TPAM), a conceptual framework that explicates how different functions of Web 2.0 and social media (i.e., informational, relational, and experiential) can generate and/or facilitate personal, social, and contextual pathways to environmentally responsible behaviors. As derived from the TPAM, the likelihood of achieving practical goals of increasing proenvironmental behaviors is enhanced when technological functions are matched to the different pathways to proenvironmental action. For example, the relational function of technologies, as exemplified by Social Networking Sites (SNSs), should be particularly effective in communicating social norms supportive of environmentally responsible behaviors. The TPAM is intended as a guide to develop novel approaches, research questions, and methodologies in leveraging Web 2.0 and social media technologies to promote proenvironmental action. Results will contribute to basic theory development and work in applied settings (e.g., local environmental organizations) in order to effectively communicate and organize with different segments of the population to increase sustainable behaviors. OPEN ACCESSSustainability 2015, 7 10621

Millennial Generation and Environmental Sustainability: The Role of Social Media in the Consumer Purchasing Behavior for Wine

“…As shown by previous research [9,13], in order to engage in pro-environmental action consumers need not be motivated by environmental concerns and believe that performing that behavior would actual address that positive output. As indicated by Menozzi, Sogari, and Mora [29], the more favorable the attitude and the perceived social pressure, the stronger the person's intention to perform that behavior should be.…”

“…Even if not specifically directed towards the wine sector, their study shows how social networks can actively promote environmental awareness and a sustainable lifestyle. Also, the study of Ballew et al [13] revealed that social media technologies might facilitate the communication of psychological and sociological or tangible factors (e.g., sustainability production program) to influence pro-environmental behavior.…”

“…In particular in the food business, consumers use these technologies to share their pro-environmental attitude and encourage people to act [13]. So far, few studies have focused on the role of environmental beliefs in shaping consumer attitude and behavior towards wine [9,14].…”

Knowledge Analysis of the Prospective Secondary School Teacher on a Key Concept in Sustainability: Waste

“…As human actions are at the heart of environmental issues, sustainable development ultimately depends on changes in human behaviour. Thus, in recent decades, the promotion of environmentally friendly behaviour has increased through the media and the growing spectrum of formal and informal environmental education programmes [11]. However, the promotion of public participation and individual action remains a challenge for governments, organizations and institutions around the world [12,13].…”

CSR perception and financial performance: Evidences from Italian and UK asset management companies

“…Specifically, the social media interactivity (Moreno & Capriotti, 2009;Capriotti, 2011;Whelan, Moon, & Grant, 2013;Men & Tsai, 2013;Ashley & Tuten, 2015) has helped in creating a stricter bond between individuals and companies. Moreover, as social media give the stakeholders an easier access to information, the stakeholders have become more responsive to ethical, and sustainability issues (Ballew, Omoto, & Winter, 2015). In addition, new ethical expectations have risen along with a set of contingent social responsibilities that companies are now asked to fulfill by their stakeholders (Moreno & Capriotti, 2009).…”