Energy Labels and Consumer Attitudes: A Study among University Staff

Hafize Nurgul Durmus Senyapar (), Bilal Duzgun and Fatih Emre Boran
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Hafize Nurgul Durmus Senyapar: Gazi University Rectorate Quality Coordinator Office, Gazi University, Ankara 06560, Turkey
Bilal Duzgun: Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Ankara 06520, Turkey
Fatih Emre Boran: Department of Energy Systems Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Gazi University, Ankara 06560, Turkey

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 5, 1-30

Abstract: This study investigates energy label awareness among Gazi University staff, exploring the influence of demographic factors on attitudes and perceptions. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the research examines individual attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control in shaping energy efficiency awareness. A cross-sectional survey of academic and administrative staff reveals significant differences in awareness across demographic groups. Gender-specific variations in attitudes towards energy-efficient products are evident, with the greatest difference observed between female (M = 3.93, SD = 1.16) and male staff (M = 3.58, SD = 1.30) on Capacity (I-11) (Z = −2.805, p = 0.005 < 0.05). Education level also significantly influences awareness scores, particularly on the status symbol item (I-18) (χ 2 = 24.543, p = 0.00 < 0.05). These findings, analyzed through Wilcoxon Rank Sum and Kruskal–Wallis Tests, provide nuanced insights into the demographic factors impacting energy label awareness. Interpretation of the findings on the complex relationship between demographic characteristics and energy label awareness with TPB provided valuable insights. The practical implications of the study highlight the imperative for tailored communication strategies and targeted interventions to raise awareness among different staff groups. By addressing these nuanced factors, the study significantly contributes to the development of effective energy policies, fostering a sustainable and energy-conscious academic community.

Keywords: energy labels; consumer attitudes; theory of planned behavior; university staff; energy efficiency; sustainable behaviors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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