Environmentally conscious behavior among Malaysian consumers: An empirical analysis

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the influence of demographic and psychographic variables on environmentally conscious consumer behavior (ECCB) in the context of Malaysian consumers. A survey was developed and administered, generating a total sample of 319 respondents across the country. The preliminary results indicated that all of the variables examined were significantly correlated to ECCB, except for income. Later, the analysis from the regression highlighted that only age, gender and perceived consumer effectiveness (PCE) were significant predictors to ECCB. The findings confirmed that, in terms of psychographic variables, PCE has been proven to be more accurate and significant determinant than environmental concern (EC) for segmenting and explaining different segments and characteristics of pro-environmental behavior. These findings may assist Malaysian policy makers in formulating actionable decisions related to environmental education and protection. The finding also allows marketers to use marketing and awarenessraising campaigns to encourage consumers to choose environmental friendly products.