Place attachment promotes pro-environmental behaviors: The mediating role of nature relatedness

Abstract

Residents’ participation in pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) is critical for addressing environmental problems and promoting sustainable development. Place attachment (PA) may play a key role in motivating residents’ pro-environment behaviors, yet the mechanisms of this relationship remain ambiguous. This study integrated natural relatedness (NR) into the research to deepen understanding of its mechanism. Using data collected in Beijing (n = 648), we found that place attachment positively and significantly influences pro-environmental behaviors through nature relatedness. Place attachment significantly affected pro-environmental behaviors. The Place attachment dimensions, including place identity (PI), natural bonding (NB), and social bonding (SB), had a significant prediction on pro-environmental behaviors. Specifically, natural bonding plays the most effective effect. However, place dependence (PD) was negatively correlated with pro-environmental behaviors. This study provides guidelines for local governments and policymakers to promote residents’ pro-environmental behaviors and improve environmental management.