Greening systems by greening religion: eco-Islamic values and water-energy-nature nexus policies in Kuwait

Shreedhar, Ganga ORCID: 0000-0003-2517-2485, Contu, Davide, Freitag, Patricia, Takshe, Aseel and Mourato, Susana ORCID: 0000-0002-9361-9990 (2024) Greening systems by greening religion: eco-Islamic values and water-energy-nature nexus policies in Kuwait. LSE Middle East Centre Kuwait Programme Paper Series (24). LSE Middle East Centre, London, UK.

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Abstract

The study examines public support for water-energy-nature (WEN) nexus policies in Kuwait, considering the interconnectedness of different natural resource sectors in addressing climate change and sustainability. While previous research has focused on technical aspects, little is known about public perceptions and willingness to adopt nexus policies. The study specifically explores the impact of moral incentives, specifically eco-Islamic values, on public support through an informational intervention. Using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) embedded in a discrete choice experiment survey, the researchers engaged a nationally representative sample of Kuwaiti residents (n=431). Participants were assigned randomly to either an informational control group or a moral incentives treatment group that emphasised eco-Islamic values. In the subsequent discrete choice experiment, participants expressed their preferences regarding three WEN nexus policy attributes: reduced emissions through renewable energy transition, increased recycled water from wastewater reduction, and tree planting for nature conservation. Results indicate that exposure to eco-Islamic values increased support for WEN nexus policies; however, while supportive, respondents do not seem willing to pay for them. These results highlight the importance of leveraging socio-cultural factors, such as religion, to promote public support for climate change action. By appealing to eco-Islamic values, policymakers can facilitate the greening of systems and ensure that religious beliefs contribute positively to efforts addressing climate change.

Item Type:	Monograph (Working Paper)
Official URL:	https://www.lse.ac.uk/middle-east-centre/publicati...
Additional Information:	© 2024 The Author(s)
Divisions:	Middle East Centre Psychological and Behavioural Science Geography & Environment
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BP Islam. Bahaism. Theosophy, etc J Political Science > JQ Political institutions Asia, Africa, Australia, Pacific
Date Deposited:	21 Mar 2024 12:39
Last Modified:	02 Oct 2024 10:15
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/122466

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