From awe to pro-environmental behavior - a meta-analysis of the relationship between awe and pro-environmental behavior

Awe has recently emerged as a key emotional driver of pro-environmental behavior (PEB), yet the strength and consistency of this link remain unclear. This meta-analysis synthesizes findings from 77 studies (N = 21,374) to assess the overall effect and explore moderating factors. Results show a significant, moderately strong positive association between awe and PEB(r = 0.32, p < 0.01). The effect is stronger in collectivist cultures, correlational designs, general PEB measures, and real-life inductions. In contrast, awe type and valence do not significantly moderate the relationship. These findings highlight awe’s robust but context-sensitive influence on PEB and offer implications for designing future environmental interventions.