Internet use and environmental behavior in China: Linking awareness,action,and governance for sustainable hydroscapes

Abstract

This study examines how internet use affects environmental behaviors in China, using data from the 2013 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS2013). We construct objective indices for comprehensive and consumptive environmental behaviors through factor analysis. Results from multiple linear regression and two-stage least squares (2SLS) models show that internet use significantly promotes both types of behaviors. This positive effect holds even after addressing endogeneity concerns. Mechanism analyses indicate that internet use works by raising environmental awareness and increasing environmental knowledge. Furthermore, the effects are stronger among women, urban residents, and the highly educated. These findings highlight the role of digital platforms in closing the gap between awareness and action, with implications for policies promoting sustainable hydroscapes and ecological civilization.