1.1 Introduction
The law introduces a Policy for Education on Sustainable Consumption in order to “encourage adoption of consumer practices and production techniques that are ecologically sustainable” (Art 1).
The law defines “sustainable consumption” as “use of natural resources in order to provide quality of life for the present generation without compromising the needs of future generations” (Art 1.1) and it includes among its nine key objectives the”promotion of reduction in consumption of water, energy and other renewable and non-renewable natural resources at the household level and from production, commerce and services” (Art 2.II).
To achieve these objectives, federal, state and municipal governments are called on to carry out public awareness and media campaigns and train teachers on including sustainable consumption in their curriculum for primary and secondary education (Art 3.I-II).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitations of the Study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Sustainable consumption (SC) is widely considered as the driver of sustainable development (Abdulrazak & Quoquab, 2018; Barth et al., 2014; Bulut et al., 2017; Quoquab et al., 2019). The notion of SC is in line with the Sustainability Development Goal (SDG) 12, which envisages the attainment of sustainable consumption and production patterns (UN, 2016). It is argued that unless consumers adopt sustainable consumption, nations’ sustainable development will be hindered (Farr, 2018; Hess, 2013).
Different authors have defined Sustainable consumption differently. However, it generally suggests a consideration of basic human needs and an avoid ance of excessive consumption. It also focuses on car ing for environmental welfare and fulfilling the needs of future generations. In addition, it also considers quality of life over material standards of living (UNEP, 2010). Apart from the government or policy makers, consumers also play a major role in enhanc ing the sustainable development motto (Chekima et al., 2016; Kapoor & Dwivedi, 2020). Consumption is central to all production so that individuals and households can have quality of life (Haron et al., 2005). However, in the process of meeting the ever growing consumer demand, the earth’s vital resour ces are shrinking at an alarming rate (Alisat & Reimer, 2015; Bogueva et al., 2017). It is therefore incumbent on individuals to adopt “sustainable con sumption behavior (SCB)” and to make a conscious effort to avoid overconsumption and care-free con sumption, which can exert harmful effects on the environment. While the need for sustainable consumption is widely recognized by scholars, policymakers and practitioners around the world, research in this area is still in its infancy and many aspects remain to be covered. Furthermore, the discussion on this subject is largely fragmented.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Sustainable Consumption in Nigeria Economy.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation reveals the problem of the Sustainable Consumption research work, which arises from overconsumption in general or the rebound effect and distributive issues in particular, in contrast, a “strong sustainable consumption” perspective provides a basis for a promising inquiry into the linkages between consumption and sustainable development as well as a fruitful exchange with de-growth.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to determine the Sustainable Consumption in Nigeria economy. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To promote the re-use of and recycling of packaging and products to reduce solid waste and hazardous waste
- To encourage companies to incorporate social, cultural and environmental dimensions in their production and management processes and better management of the whole life cycle of products
- To ensure the right to information and promotion of environmental labeling and certification.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Has the Sustainable Consumption concept emerged?
- Does the notion of sustainable consumption to be conceptualized in a holistic manner?
- What are the major facets of sustainable consumption?
- What theories are being considered in relation to this phenomenon?
- What are the predictors of sustainable consumption?
- What are the outcomes of sustainable consumption?
- What are the mediators/moderators that are being considered in relation to this concept?
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