Energy Usage, Health Issues, and Pro-Environmental Behaviour: Exploring the Link and Promoting Energy Change in Kyrgyzstan
Date Issued
2023
Author(s)
Hamelin, Nicolas
Bhatti, Ishaq M.
Abstract
Background: This study examines the relationship between energy usage, health issues, and
pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) in Kyrgyzstan amidst the country’s commitment to transition
from coal-based energy to renewable sources, in line with the Paris Agreement. The purpose is
to investigate citizens’ attitudes towards PEB and their intentions to engage in environmentally
friendly actions, focusing on gas, electricity, and coal. Methods: Drawing upon the Theory of
Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework, a survey was conducted among 1455 respondents to explore
attitudes towards PEB and energy sources’ impact on health issues. Results: Decarbonization efforts
in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia are in their early stages, with coal remaining a primary energy source.
The study emphasizes the importance of governmental policies and citizen action in achieving
decarbonization goals. Rising electricity costs outweigh the increase in indirect energy costs for food,
posing challenges for households adapting to changing energy dynamics. Conclusions: Targeted
interventions and communication strategies are crucial to promote pro-environmental behaviour
and facilitate the transition to sustainable energy sources. Understanding the relationships between
health concerns, air pollution awareness, PEB, and energy source choices can inform policymakers
and organizations to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for Kyrgyzstan and other Central
Asian countries.
pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) in Kyrgyzstan amidst the country’s commitment to transition
from coal-based energy to renewable sources, in line with the Paris Agreement. The purpose is
to investigate citizens’ attitudes towards PEB and their intentions to engage in environmentally
friendly actions, focusing on gas, electricity, and coal. Methods: Drawing upon the Theory of
Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework, a survey was conducted among 1455 respondents to explore
attitudes towards PEB and energy sources’ impact on health issues. Results: Decarbonization efforts
in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia are in their early stages, with coal remaining a primary energy source.
The study emphasizes the importance of governmental policies and citizen action in achieving
decarbonization goals. Rising electricity costs outweigh the increase in indirect energy costs for food,
posing challenges for households adapting to changing energy dynamics. Conclusions: Targeted
interventions and communication strategies are crucial to promote pro-environmental behaviour
and facilitate the transition to sustainable energy sources. Understanding the relationships between
health concerns, air pollution awareness, PEB, and energy source choices can inform policymakers
and organizations to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for Kyrgyzstan and other Central
Asian countries.