Abstract:

The intersection of consumer behavior and green marketing in the hospitality sector represents a critical domain for understanding and addressing contemporary environmental challenges. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution and theoretical underpinnings of consumer behavior and green marketing initiatives, with a specific focus on their application within the hospitality industry. Commencing with an overview of the global environmental landscape characterized by unsustainable consumption patterns and exacerbated by geopolitical events such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the paper underscores the imperative for sustainable practices and the adoption of green marketing strategies to mitigate environmental degradation. The introduction contextualizes the significance of recent geopolitical events in driving the transition towards renewable energy sources and underscores the evolving consumer preferences towards environmentally sustainable practices in the hospitality sector. It highlights the strategic imperative for businesses to align with these preferences through the adoption of green marketing strategies aimed at engaging environmentally conscious consumers. The methodology employed in this study involves a comprehensive qualitative approach, utilizing content analysis techniques to examine the extensive literature on consumer behavior and green marketing in the hospitality sector. By systematically reviewing peer-reviewed journal articles, academic texts, conference proceedings, and industry reports, relevant theoretical frameworks and empirical studies will be identified and synthesized to elucidate the complex relationship between consumer behavior and green marketing strategies.

Identifying research gaps, the paper explores the theoretical frameworks and models shaping consumer behavior and engagement, emphasizing the need for comprehensive integration and empirical validation within the hospitality context. Drawing from seminal theories such as the Theory of Environmental Marketing, Theory of Societal Marketing, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Theory of Corporate Social Responsibility, the paper elucidates their relevance in guiding businesses towards environmental stewardship and societal welfare. Moreover, the paper examines consumer behavior theories, including social exchange theory, theory of value co-creation, communication theory, community theory, and social identity theory, within the context of online brand communities and social media interactions.

In conclusion, the paper underscores the pivotal role of green marketing in shaping consumer behavior and engagement within the hospitality sector. By synthesizing theoretical frameworks with empirical evidence, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics underpinning consumer behavior and green marketing strategies. It offers actionable insights for marketers and industry professionals to promote sustainability and enhance consumer experiences in the hospitality sector, thus advancing the discourse on environmental responsibility and sustainable consumption practices.

Please choose your submission type: Full Paper

Primary Track: Management and Business History

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Prof Anastasios Panopoulos