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Climate change education through the lens of behavioral economics: A systematic review of studies on observed behavior and social norms

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  • Galeotti, Fabio
  • Hopfensitz, Astrid
  • Mantilla, César

Abstract

We conduct a systematic review (SR) of the empirical literature on Climate Change Education (CCE) through the lens of behavioral economics. We focus on the effects of educational interventions on actual behaviors or beliefs regarding the prevalence or social acceptability of these behaviors. We identify 86 studies evaluating CCE interventions. Most of them employ pre-post evaluations, which are more susceptible to demand effects and social desirability bias. Almost all report positive effects in terms of pro-environmental outcomes. Only 19 studies look at the effects of CCE on actual behavior (mainly on recycling, trashing or energy saving) or norm-related beliefs. Most interventions involve activities aimed at engaging learners. Others focus on nudges (like stickers or posters). A minority is based on lectures, deliberative discussions, or science-based interactions. The SR reveals important gaps in the literature and potential tensions that can inform future research in behavioral ecological economics.

Suggested Citation

  • Galeotti, Fabio & Hopfensitz, Astrid & Mantilla, César, 2024. "Climate change education through the lens of behavioral economics: A systematic review of studies on observed behavior and social norms," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 226(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolec:v:226:y:2024:i:c:s0921800924002350
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2024.108338
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Climate change education; Systematic review; Children and young people; Social norms; Pro-environmental behavior;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A20 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - General
    • Q54 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Climate; Natural Disasters and their Management; Global Warming
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth

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