Religiosity and pro-environmental behavior at home and during travel: a comparative study of Muslim and Hindu travelers

The influence of religiosity on pro-environmental behavior (PEB) during travel remains insufficiently explored, limiting the potential to leverage religious resources for sustainable actions. Moreover, the limited existing research yields inconsistent findings, requiring clarification. This study examines how religiosity relates to PEB at home and intention for PEB during travel, using survey data from 665 travelers in Bangladesh. It also offers comparative analysis across two major religions, Islam and Hinduism. The results indicate that religiosity can contribute to PEB at home and during travel for followers of both religions. Theoretically, this research contributes to the literature on environmental psychology by providing empirical grounding for theorizing that religiosity can motivate PEB across contexts. Additionally, it sets the groundwork for a comparative theoretical framework on religiosity and environmental behavior. Practically, it highlights the importance of faith-based communication, religious ambience, and engagement with religious leaders to motivate PEB at home and travel destinations.