What Are Pro-Environmental Behaviors (PEBs)?

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs). There is no catchall definition or way to categorize PEBs; therefore, I propose various definitions and ways to categorize PEBs. Two main definitions for PEBs are shown here: purpose oriented and fact oriented. The relationships between these definitions are clearly shown in a diagram. Based on these definitions, narrowly defined PEBs and other definitions can be understood. In addition, based on various aspects, such as place, actor, influential fields, sub-impacts, household PEBs, and repeatability, the possible lower-level categorizations of PEBs are explained. Finally, I summarize behaviors proposed by various environmental agencies and present a list of 200 PEBs. In the list, the main classification is based on the major targets for reduction, such as greenhouse gases, air pollutants, water pollutants, resource consumption, and disturbance of nature, with 12 categories under the main targets, which are standard in many places. Under each category, subcategories are also shown, which can be modified by users.