Interventions for sustainable consumption

Abstract

This dissertation presents three independent research papers, all of which use behavioral and experimental methods to contribute to a better understanding of different interventions to promote more environmentally sustainable consumption. <br /> Chapter 1 examines the impact of carbon labels on the consumption of student canteen meals. Using a series of experiments, including two framed field experiments and a natural field experiment conducted across three student canteens, it provides evidence on the effectiveness of the labels relative to a carbon tax, the behavioral channels through which they affect consumers, and their impact on consumer welfare. <br /> Chapter 2 examines the behavioral and welfare effects of two different behavioral interventions to promote resource conservation: real-time feedback and social comparison. Using a framed field experiment that tests the two interventions as tools to reduce the length of consumers' showers, it provides evidence on how the two interventions compare in their effects on consumer behavior and welfare. <br /> Chapter 3 examines the post-intervention effects of a vegetarian month in a student canteen. Using a natural field experiment conducted across three student canteens as well as auxiliary survey data, it provides evidence on how a temporary intervention to reduce meat consumption can affect consumer behavior in a more permanent manner.