Proenvironmental concern and behavior in Turkey: The role of national and environmental identity

Abstract

Because individual responses to environmental threats typically contribute more to collective than individual wellbeing, some identification with the collective may be important. Environmental identity predicts proenvironmental behaviors. Could a national identity also serve as a motivator? The present paper examines predictors of environmental concern and behavior in Turkey, with a particular focus on the role of national and environmental identity. We surveyed 808 Turkish university students and found strong endorsement for statements reflecting a cultural value for the environment. Turkish national identity also correlated with environmental identity, concern, behavior, and attributions of responsibility, although it did not contribute additional variance to the criterion variables once other predictors were included. We conclude that national identity may incorporate pro-environmental attitudes and is a promising arena for pro-environmental interventions.