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Using the Theory of Planned Behavior for Explaining Mobile Phone Recycling: The Role of Subjective Norms

Author

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  • Iosif Botetzagias

    (Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilene, Greece)

  • Eirini Grigoraki

    (Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilene, Greece)

  • Giorgos D. Kokkoris

    (Department of Marine Sciences, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilene, Greece)

Abstract

This study examines the extent to which standard Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) predictors (Attitude; Subjective Norms; and Perceived Behavioral Control) explain the intention to recycle an end-of-use mobile phone. Our data originate from empirical research on Greek citizens conducted in the summer of 2022 (N = 258). Through ordinal regression modeling, we found that all the TPB predictors positively influence one’s intention to recycle. In contrast to most previous studies, we found that Subjective Norms is the most influential predictor. However, its influence is dependent on the type of norm (descriptive vs. injunctive), the type of social referent (family vs. close friends), and, most importantly, one’s level of identification with the social referent.

Suggested Citation

  • Iosif Botetzagias & Eirini Grigoraki & Giorgos D. Kokkoris, 2024. "Using the Theory of Planned Behavior for Explaining Mobile Phone Recycling: The Role of Subjective Norms," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(20), pages 1-11, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:20:p:8773-:d:1496164
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Hage, Olle & Söderholm, Patrik & Berglund, Christer, 2009. "Norms and economic motivation in household recycling: Empirical evidence from Sweden," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 53(3), pages 155-165.
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    1. Kexin Zhou & Shaojun Chen & Bing Liang, 2024. "Study on Farmers’ Willingness to Participate in High-Standard Farmland Construction Against the Background of Agricultural Green Development," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(11), pages 1-18, November.

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