Ordinary acts that contribute to ecocide. An exploratory approach to Robert Agnew's proposal from the general strain theory

Abstract

This study uses data from the Social Survey 2018: Households and the Environment in Andalusia to explore Robert Agnew's proposal of applying the propositions of the main criminological theories to the analysis of the ordinary acts that contribute to ecocide, understood as the contamination and destruction on the natural environment in ways that reduce its ability to support life. More specifically, the applicability of the General Strain Theory is addressed and, particularly, of the concept of environmental strain, making a distinction between its objective and subjective dimensions. The results partially support Agnew's approach. Possible reasons underlying and implications of these findings are discussed, and future directions for this promising line of research are suggested.