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Title Assessing the peer effects of college students' engagement in the circular economy: Survey evidence from textbook reuse and recycling in China
ID_Doc 2224
Authors Jia, HY; Lin, BQ
Title Assessing the peer effects of college students' engagement in the circular economy: Survey evidence from textbook reuse and recycling in China
Year 2024
Published
DOI 10.1016/j.eiar.2024.107565
Abstract In the face of escalating environmental impacts caused by human activities, the development of a circular economy is widely regarded as a crucial sustainable solution. Identifying pivotal enablers driving the transition gains increasing significance. Scarce research has focused on how to improve public engagement in the circular economy and acceptance of circular products, especially for developing countries. Based on an interview of 2912 Chinese college students conducted in 2021, and the instrumental variable method, this paper innovatively documents positive associations of circular practices among peers. Specifically, it is found that: (1) individuals exhibit positive responses when their fellow classmates actively adopt used textbooks; (2) the impact is more pronounced among students majoring in energy and environmental fields, and for cohorts with higher participation in voluntary activities advocating sustainable lifestyles; and (3) the spillover effect is also manifested in engagement in second-hand book recycling. Given the potential of peers' beneficial influence as a promising instrument for driving circular economy practices, it is recommended that public policies consider its catalytic role.
Author Keywords Peer effect; Circular economy; Public participation; Survey
Index Keywords Index Keywords
Document Type Other
Open Access Open Access
Source Social Science Citation Index (SSCI)
EID WOS:001246632000001
WoS Category Environmental Studies
Research Area Environmental Sciences & Ecology
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