Determinants of Pro-Environmental Behaviour: An Expert Opinion Study Through Delphy Method

The study started with aninquiry in the field of environmental education with a specific emphasis on Pro-environmental behavior (PEB). There were various studies found which explained pro-environmental behavior and also discussed the probable determinants of it. The objective of the study was to find out the determinants of Pro-Environmental Behavior relevant in West Bengal/ Indian scenario. In the first phase, a study was done through a content analysis followed by NVivo qualitative software application to understand the trend. In the second phase, the determinants found through content analysis were farther verified with local experts in this field. Academicians with expertise in the research area of the environment were requested to provide their opinion. ‘Delphi method/technique' was used for this evaluation. Selected determinants found through qualitative study were sent to the experts for their opinion and provide a ranking too. Experts were also requested to provide farther input for new variables as the determinants of the PEB. A total number of 16 new variables were generated from the feedback of experts other than the predetermined 21 variables (from original 27 variables). Therefore the PEB determinant study resulted in the final list of thirty-seven (37) variables.