WHO IS THE SUSTAINABLE CONSUMER? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE ON THE FACTORS INFLUENCING SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION

Abstract

Several authors corroborate the inexistence of conclusive studies, a solidified theory or definitive revisions that determine or gather the main motivating factors of sustainable consumption, as well as encourage further research with this intent. From this gap the objective of this research was to identify the main determinants of sustainable consumption already analyzed and statistically validated internationally. This study was developed through the systematic literature review method. To this end, 7 search terms were defined, searched in the Web of Science database, internationally. At the end of the searches and analyzes, the study sample comprised 143 articles. Through the review 21 factors that stand out as determinants of sustainable consumption were identified, among which environmental awareness stands out, however several less intuitive or evident factors were also verified, for example: Access to social networks; Level of religiosity; Public transport penetration rate; Love for material possession; Urbanization rate; Emotions, among others. The study results contribute to the formation of a more solid theoretical approach to analyze and understand sustainable consumption behavior. It aims to provide companies with a better outline of the motivating factors of sustainable consumption, which in possession of such information, can develop more assertive strategies in meeting the demands of this public, enhancing their sales, as well as contributing to the solidification of development. sustainable.