Does LEED-certified multifamily housing influence occupants' environmental behaviors? Case studies of residential developments in the Midwest
Abstract
The recent popularity of voluntary green building guidelines, especially the USGBC'S LEED green building rating systems, and the increased significance of pro-environmental behaviors have prompted the exploration of occupants' environmental behaviors and the social dimensions of LEED features through a qualitative research methods approach. This research study, an interdisciplinary qualitative case study of two socioeconomically diverse LEED-certified multifamily housing developments, was conducted in two parts. The first part provides two detailed individual case studies of low-income and high-income residents' environmental knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, and the underlying reasons (direct and indirect) for their adoption of environmental behaviors. The second part is a cross-case analysis of the two case studies, highlighting five emerging patterns pertaining to residents' environmental behaviors. This study reveals that adoption and commitment to pro-environmental behaviors are personal, contextual and situation-based. It is influenced by exploratory factors, LEED and non-LEED related, which have direct and indirect effects on experiences and environmental behaviors. Furthermore, the study shows that environmental behaviors require awareness, guidance, available environmental interventions, and motivation for enhancing existing and adopting new pro-environmental behaviors. Finally, this research helps to facilitate the development of future tailor-made strategies to promote pro-environmental behaviors in green buildings, specific to occupants of all income levels, through an interdisciplinary and multifaceted approach.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Prokopy, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Behavioral psychology|Environmental Studies|Sustainability|Architecture
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