Planned behavior and environmental Action: A causal approach for Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25097/rep.n44.2026.06Keywords:
environmental awareness, pro-environmental behavior, propensity score matching, impact evaluationAbstract
This study evaluates the causal effect of environmental awareness on the adoption of pro-environmental practices among Ecuadorian households during the period 2010–2014, using the Propensity Score Matching method. Based on official microdata, the analysis controls for self-selection bias and provides empirical evidence in a Latin American context where correlational approaches have predominated. The results indicate that environmentally aware households exhibit a higher probability of saving water (6% to 9%), saving energy (5% to 8%), and sorting waste (7% to 11%) compared to otherwise similar households without this characteristic. These findings support the Theory of Planned Behavior, showing that environmental awareness acts as a key mechanism in the transition from intention to action. The study offers relevant evidence for the design of public policies aimed at strengthening environmental education and awareness strategies differentiated by socioeconomic group.
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