Understanding the behavioural drivers of mindful consumption: a study on the use of sustainable menstrual products

Abstract

Purpose

The adverse environmental impacts of menstrual products are a significant concern because of their widespread use and non-biodegradability. With various global and regional initiatives on sustainability, there is now greater public awareness about environmental protection. This heightened awareness has resulted in the exploration of alternative methods to reduce waste, such as the development and use of sustainable menstrual products. This study aims to examine the factors that influence Indian women’s purchasing intention in relation to sustainable menstrual products. The study uses the Stimulus–Organism–Behavior–Consequence (SOBC) theory as the appropriate grounded theory to explain these determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data were collected from 720 women who have been using sustainable menstrual products. For analysing the model, the study performed structural equation modelling using AMOS.

Findings

The study’s results indicated that health consciousness, sustainability knowledge and environmental responsibility are positively associated with self-identity and mindfulness. Additionally, the study found that organism states have a positive impact on the purchase intention of sustainable menstrual products. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship observed between purchase intention and mindful consumption. The study also discovered significant positive relationships between satisfaction and key associations.

Originality/value

This study may be considered pioneering, as it establishes a connection between the usage of sustainable menstrual products and concepts such as mindfulness and mindful consumption.

Citation

Lathabhavan, R. and Lathabhavan, R. (2024), "Understanding the behavioural drivers of mindful consumption: a study on the use of sustainable menstrual products", Journal of Indian Business Research, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 308-326. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIBR-01-2023-0029