Empirical model of public participation intention in biomass project based on integrated TAM-TPB model.

Abstract

Effective implementation of sustainable biomass projects requires active participation and public acceptance to supply and transport biomass feedstock. Therefore, this study aims to identify and measure the factors encouraging the public to participate actively in biomass projects and suggest strategies to increase their participation. This study started with a systematic literature review and conceptual model development by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) models. In addition, this study considers other relevant and significant variables such as education level, environmental concern, experience, information, and self-transcendence values. This study employed purposive sampling to target corn farmers and wood artisans in Banyuwangi. Then, data analysis was conducted on 75 collected questionnaires (75% response rate) using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.0. The result of hypothesis testing showed that 13 of the 18 proposed hypotheses are significantly supported; one hypothesis is significant with a different direction from the study proposed, and four are not significantly supported. According to the PLS-SEM calculation, the most influential factor for Intention (INT) is Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC). The study indicates that people will most likely participate in a biomass project by supplying or transporting biomass feedstock if they can devote their time or resources. This study's results offer crucial insights for the power generation industry and policymakers regarding implementing sustainable biomass projects, equipping them with actionable insights to increase public participation.