Pro-environmental behaviors and well-being in everyday life

• Published in: Journal of environmental psychology 2024-09, Vol.98, p.102394, Article 102394
• Main Authors: Prinzing, Michael, Lades, Leonhard K., Weber, Till O., Fredrickson, Barbara, Laffan, Kate
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Day reconstruction method; Happiness; Meaning in life; Sustainability; Well-being
• ISSN: 0272-4944
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2024.102394

Individual and household behaviors are key targets for climate change mitigation efforts, and studies suggest that people who enact more pro-environmental behaviors tend to experience higher levels of well-being. Yet these studies have typically used coarse-grained, retrospective reports that offer limited insight into the immediate impacts of specific behaviors. In three studies (total N = 8,522 observations, N = 1,353 US and UK participants) we adopted a highly fine-grained approach. Using the day reconstruction method, we zoomed in on particular moments in everyday life to examine links between specific behaviors and different aspects of well-being. This revealed generally positive associations, but also substantial variation. Pro-environmental behaviors are more closely and consistently associated with positive and especially “eudaimonic” dimensions of well-being. And more active, effortful, and social behaviors tended to show stronger positive associations. Although the relationships between pro-environmental behaviors and well-being are considerably more complex than prior research has indicated, these findings continue to suggest that ecological and individual well-being can be pursued in tandem. •Prior studies found that pro-environmental behavior correlates with well-being.•Using the day reconstruction method to minimize reporting bias, we zoom in on moments in daily life.•Links between specific pro-environmental behaviors and well-being vary substantially.•Social and active, effortful behaviors show stronger links.•Patterns of association are consistent between two countries with large environmental impacts.