Demystifying consumers' climate change engagement: a knowledge–attitude–practice perspective

Abstract

Purpose Despite growing interest in climate change engagement, its nature and dynamics remain poorly understood. Addressing this gap, we conceptualise consumers' climate change engagement (CCCE) and explore its role in enhancing sustainable consumption. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on the knowledge–attitude–practice (KAP) model, we explore the role of enablers, including consumers' perceived knowledge and word-of-mouth (WOM) about climate change, in shaping CCCE. Using data collected from 285 respondents, we also examine the role of CCCE in shaping consumers' attitudes toward climate-friendly products and their purchase intentions. Findings The findings reveal CCCE as a significant predictor of consumers' purchase intention for climate-friendly products. Consumers' perceived knowledge and WOM about climate change were also found to significantly drive CCCE, while perceived self-efficacy in solving environmental issues was found to moderate (i.e. augment) this effect. Originality/value This research conceptualises consumers' climate change engagement (CCCE) and explores its role in enhancing climate-friendly, sustainable consumption from the KAP lens. The study advances the extant stock of knowledge from linear Knowledge → Behaviour models to Knowledge → Engagement → Attitude → Intention.