Resistance to Change and Perceived Risk as Determinants of Water-Saving Intention

Francisco J. Sarabia-Sanchez, Isabel P. Riquelme and Juan Bruno
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Francisco J. Sarabia-Sanchez: Center for Innovation and Business Development, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain
Isabel P. Riquelme: Department of Economic and Financial Studies, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 9, 1-20

Abstract: Both the academic literature and global organizations have emphasized the need for responsible water consumption, as stated in Sustainable Development Goal 12. However, individuals’ water-saving behaviors in their current state are not enough. This situation entails a resistance to change (RC) in consumer habits and a lack of perceived risk of scarcity. The novelty of this study lies in examining the influence of RC (through its emotional, cognitive, and confidence components) and perceived risk on water-saving intention. Interviews ( n = 384) were conducted in the southeast Mediterranean area of Spain by interviewers using a paper-and-pencil questionnaire. The results of the structural equation modeling show that the perceived risk and the components of cognitive rigidity and negative emotions exert a direct influence on water-saving habits and an indirect influence on water-saving intention. None of the components of RC directly influence intention, and a lack of confidence in the outcomes of water saving does not influence water-saving habits or water-saving intention. In addition to the results obtained, the novelty of the work lies in the idea that in order to influence the perception of the risk of water scarcity through awareness campaigns, it is better to use an emotional message rather than showing facts or information because this does not drive water-saving behavior.

Keywords: water saving; resistance to change; perceived risk; intentions; Sustainable Development Goal 12 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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