Predicting behaviours related to marine litter prevention: an empirical case based on junior high school students in Italy

Abstract

Like many other environmental issues, marine litter represents a growing threat that needs to be tackled appropriately. Young adults can play a crucial role in targeting current and future issues related to marine litter given that they tend to be particularly aware of factors regarding sustainability and the environment in general. The study investigates the willingness of junior high school students to be involved in supporting beach clean-up activities and other awareness programs related to marine litter. The findings show how environmental knowledge, awareness of the consequences, attitudes towards marine environment preservation and social norms predict junior high school students' pro-environmental behaviour towards marine protection. Social norms were found to be the highest predictor of pro-environmental behaviour related to marine litter, whereas personal attitudes had a limited influence. The conclusions highlight the future strategies needed both at policy and managerial levels in order to understand how to motivate and further promote junior high school students' engagement in preserving the marine and coastal environment.