Boosting ecological food consumption behavior among millennials: role of health consciousness, perceived consumer effectiveness and ethical self-identity

Purpose The aim of the current study is to examine the effect of health consciousness, perceived consumer effectiveness and ethical self-identity on customers green purchase intention and actual behavior through an antecedent–focus–outcome relationship in the context of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach For this study, research design was cross sectional and self-administered questionnaire was used for collecting data from the sample respondents. Primary data for this current study were collected from the segment termed as “millennium generation” which consists of young adults between the ages of 18–39 years. Sample technique of this study was judgmental, and a part of non-probability sampling was used for data collection. Statistical tools like SPSS and partial least square (PLS) were employed for the study to examine the impact of the constructs on green purchase intention and behavior. Findings After analyzing the data, the empirical findings obtained via smart Partial Least Square (PLS) approach confirmed out that all the four factors have significant positive relationship with green purchase intention which is also positively related with actual purchase behavior regarding ecological food products. Research limitations/implications The result of the current study provides better understanding and information for the organizations to give more emphasis on the association of health consciousness, ethical self-identity and perceived consumer effectiveness with green purchase intention and actual behavior. The present study will assist as a guide to provide several implications and recommendations to organizations, business owners, academicians and policymakers aiming to encourage green products adoption rate thereby reducing natural degradation and increasing environmental sustainability. Originality/value This research establishes the findings that more concentration should be given to enhance ecological consumption and environmental awareness to achieve environmental sustainability and ecological balance in Bangladesh and all other developing countries. The outcomes of the study also contribute to the existing literature by adding new insights to customers' environmental concern and green consumption behavior in the context of Bangladesh.