Factors influencing citizens' co-production of environmental services: a multi-level analysis

Drawing on the literature on public service co-production, we examine the individual-level factors associated with people’s pro-environmental behaviours. We also explore the role that local government-level factors play in... [ view full abstract ]

Drawing on the literature on public service co-production, we examine the individual-level factors associated with people’s pro-environmental behaviours. We also explore the role that local government-level factors play in shaping those behaviours. Multi-level analyses of data from a survey of citizens across the twenty-two local governments in Wales indicate that individuals who are more altruistic and have high levels of self-efficacy, are more likely to ‘co-produce’ environmental services through activities such as recycling, volunteering and ‘green’ consumerism. In addition, women, rural-dwellers, university graduates and middle-aged individuals exhibit more pro-environmental behaviours. Further analysis suggests that environmental co-production is more prevalent in areas with a high degree of compatibility between local public services and citizens, but poorer quality and cheaper services. Stronger backing for ‘green’ political representation is also important. The theoretical and practical implications of our findings are discussed.