Environmental perception of climate change perceived by university students on vegetarian behavioral intention

Abstract

With the rapid rise of global temperatures and the negative effects of greenhouse gases, the destruction of natural resources and unlimited development is rapidly endangering the earth. The inefficient use of meat-based agriculture has contributed to contemporary concerns about environmental degradation and global food inequality. Therefore, the research attempted to establish a theoretical model to predict and explain the effects of health risks on vegetarian behavioral intention under climate change. The research investigated the vegetarian behavioral intention of university students derived from environmental perception, environmental attitude, and health risk perception. The research involved six universities in Taiwan, with a total of about 25,000 university students. A total of 1050 replies was received from the questionnaires, were carefully revised and all items were confirmed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and Smart PLS data analysis were used to find the applicability of the survey data and the research model. The results showed that personality traits, health risk perception, and environmental value positively influence vegetarian behavioral intention. The model facilitated the evaluation of the variables related to environmental responsibility and behavior and could serve as a reference for policy decision-makers and teaching staff in terms of sustainable education.