Extending the theory of planned behaviour in sustainability education: a case study of Indonesian university students’ pro-environmental intentions

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Risa Bernadip, Nurul Eka Wijayanti Risa, Resky Dwiyanti Risa, Rusman Rasyid, Wirawan Setialaksana

2026 Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education Article Cited by 0

Abstract

Purpose – This study extends the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) by integrating environmental values, environmental knowledge, and green mindfulness to examine predictors of pro-environmental behavioural intentions among Indonesian university students. Design/methodology/approach – A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 681 undergraduate students, and data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The model incorporated motivational, cognitive, and reflective antecedents within an extended TPB framework. Findings – Biospheric values significantly predicted attitudes and intentions, whereas altruistic values showed only indirect effects and egoistic values were not significant. Environmental knowledge positively influenced attitudes, mindfulness, and intentions. Green mindfulness had a significant but modest effect. Among TPB variables, attitude, injunctive norms, and perceived behavioural control were significant predictors, while descriptive norms were not. Practical implications – Higher education should prioritise value-based and knowledge-integrated approaches, strengthen injunctive norms, and enhance perceived behavioural control through supportive infrastructure. Green mindfulness can complement these strategies. Originality/value – This study provides an extended TPB model integrating values, cognition, and mindfulness, offering a contextually grounded framework for sustainability education in the Global South. © Emerald Publishing Limited

Affiliations

Mining Engineering, Universitas Pejuang Republik Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia; Water Resources Management, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sinjai, Sinjai Regency, Indonesia; Fisheries Resource Utilization, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar, Indonesia; Geography Education, Universitas Khairun, Ternate, Indonesia; Informatics and Computer Engineering Education, Universitas Negeri Makassar, Makassar, Indonesia