Expanding the understanding of rebound effects through practice theory: an analytical framework for evaluating (un-)sustainable consumption dynamics

Rebound effects (REs) frequently undermine the potential of sustainability-oriented interventions, hindering societies from living within ecological limits. Conventional rebound research often relies on economic mechanisms, such as income and price effects, to explain their occurrence. Practice-oriented rebound research, however, can expand existing understandings to reveal how rebounds unfold as part of the performance of everyday life in unique socio-temporal and spatial contexts. This article proposes a practice-oriented definition of REs and a practice-theoretical (PT) framework to provide structure for practice-oriented rebound research. The framework is iteratively developed, building upon a systematic review of PT literature and refined through its evaluation. This research contributes to the state of the art by integrating, systematizing, and expanding upon existing conceptual reflections on the potential of practice theories to rebound research. An expansion of the theoretical foundations of REs to include PT considerations can deepen understanding of REs embedded in everyday life, enabling more strategic approaches to identifying, preventing, and mitigating them.