Exploring a nexus among green behavior and environmental sustainability: A systematic literature review and avenues for future research

Abstract

To systematically review and synthesize research on green behavior, examining its theoretical foundations, influencing factors, and broader implications for environmental sustainability, a systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, utilizing Scopus and Web of Science databases. The search yielded 130 studies, with 88 meeting the inclusion criteria based on factors like language, peer-review status, theoretical framework, and relevance. The objective is to encapsulate the diversity of theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and empirical findings that define this vibrant area of research. The review delineates the significant surge in scholarly attention towards green behavior, highlighting its emergent role in promoting sustainable environmental practices across various sectors. It provides a nuanced understanding of the drivers, barriers, and outcomes associated with adopting green behaviors, underscoring the complexity of navigating toward sustainability. The analysis reveals a predominant reliance on quantitative methods to explore the phenomena while pointing out the relative scarcity of studies addressing the socioeconomic dimensions underpinning green behavior. This paper identifies critical gaps by offering a holistic view of the academic landscape. It suggests avenues for future research, particularly the need for an integrated approach encompassing environmental, social, and economic considerations. In doing so, it aims to contribute to a more comprehensive discourse on sustainable practices, encouraging multidisciplinary collaborations to address the multifaceted challenges of environmental sustainability.