The impact of environmental literacy on residents' green consumption: Experimental evidence from China

The environmental pollution and climate change caused by rapid industrialization and economic growth have become worldwide concerns. In order to alleviate environmental pressures and seek sustainable development pathways, green consumption has become a focal point of attention. However, the practice of green consumption often constrained by individuals' levels of environmental literacy. Therefore, this study focuses on Shandong Province, comprehensively assessing residents' environmental literacy through four dimensions: environmental values, environmental responsibility, environmental problem perception, and environmental behavioral skills. Similarly, residents' green consumption is evaluated through four dimensions: green products, material recycling, biodiversity conservation, and efficient use of energy. The study investigates the connection between these two aspects to provide robust support for regional sustainable development. Data from 210 valid surveys collected through online questionnaires in Shandong Province revealed a generally high level of environmental literacy and green consumption, but relatively lower performance in dimensions like environmental behavioral skills, green products and material recycling. Further analysis demonstrates significant positive correlations between the four dimensions of environmental literacy and green consumption. Notably, environmental behavior skills and environmental responsibility played pivotal roles in influencing green consumption.