Purpose This study examines relationships between self-transcendence values, environmental attitudes, and pro-environmental behaviours among Spanish university students. Design/methodology/approach 624 participants completed a questionnaire based on Schwartz’s benevolence and universalism values, environmental concern, pro-environmental behaviours (PEB), and environmental activism (EA) across different disciplines. Findings Universalism-nature values showed the strongest positive correlations with PEB and EA. Being concerned about ecology (CAE) partially mediated the relationship between universalism-nature values and PEB and EA. Personal factors, such as green family environment and eco-friendly consumption habits, as well as left-wing political orientation were positively associated with PEB, EA, and positive environmental concern dimensions. Contrary to expectations, final-year students did not demonstrate higher levels of PEB or environmental concern compared to first-year students. Psychology and Interpretation/International Relations students scored higher on PEB than Law/Business students. Moderated mediation analyses revealed that political orientation moderated the relationship between universalism-nature values and CAE, with stronger effects for left-leaning individuals. Additionally, green consumer identity moderates the relationship between CAE and EA, with stronger effects for those identifying as green consumers. Research limitations/implications The study reveals complex interactions between values, attitudes, and behaviours, highlighting the need for targeted environmental education strategies in higher education that address contextual barriers and facilitate behaviour change through supportive environments. Originality/value This study is the first of its kind to examine relationships between self-transcendence values, environmental attitudes, and pro-environmental behaviours in Spanish private universities.
Pirzkall et al. (Mon,) studied this question.